Polytrichum formosum represents a division of mosses in which the fruits are borne on the termination of the stem or principal branches. Usually about 4 to 12 cm long. Its narrow leaves are 5 to 10 mm long with serrate margins and a pointed, sometimes reddish tip, they project from the main vertical stem in a spiral arrangement.

All year round

In an early condition the capsule is covered with a conical densely-hairy cap (calyptra) which is thrown off when the spores are ripe, the operculum follows and the spores are cast.

Fairly frequent and widespread throughout Britain

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.