Like a smaller version of B. unguiculata, this moss is very common and sometimes grows in great abundance. Important vegetative differences from B. unguiculata include the nerve, which disappears in the tip of the leaf, and the form of the leaf apex itself, which is blunt with a short protruding point. Leaves tend to be shorter and taper more obviously to the tip, and the leaf margins are only slightly recurved near the base. When fertile, female plants bear erect cylindrical capsules on yellowish setae. Around the base of the seta, it has unmistakeable long, folded, sheathing (convolute) perichaetial leaves that resemble a shiny tube and from which it derives its specific name.

Barbula unguiculata.

Typically found in disturbed, open habitats such as paths, gardens, fields and walls.

All year round.

Widespread and frequent in Britain.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.