Willow Moss

Willow moss is a true aquatic moss found in both flowing and standing waters across much of the northern hemisphere. Fontinalis antipyretica is variable, and some forms retain different appearances even when grown under similar conditions. Other aquatic mosses are sometimes mistaken for it, so the name on a wild-collected portion is not sufficient identification by itself.

The optimum temperature is 10 to 22 °C, making an unheated or cool aquarium a suitable starting point. Use pH 5 to 7.5 and light from low to high. Consider the provenance and condition of the plant as well as the temperature of the intended tank.

Place a divided portion against suitable submerged hardscape and secure it while it establishes. It is attached growth rather than a plant whose shoots need to be buried in the substrate. Trim or divide the moss when it obscures the layout, and remove loose or deteriorating material during maintenance. Growth is rated medium under suitable conditions; assess healthy new shoots rather than expecting a fixed number of centimetres of growth each week. Propagation is by splitting the growth and separating daughter portions.

For a cool-water display, compare the chosen specimen with the supplier’s identification and keep it where its trailing growth can be inspected. Similar common names do not establish that different mosses share the same temperature preference.