English name: Silky forklet-moss
An acrocarpous moss that forms dense, yellow-green to mid-green cushions or patches. When moist, the leaves are curved and point in one direction. The base of the leaf is egg-shaped and the blade tapers to a fine, channelled point which is toothed near the tip. Capsules are elliptical and held horizontal or inclined on a yellow seta that becomes browner with age.
Capsules mature in winter and spring.
In Scotland, Dicranella heteromalla is widespread woodlands on banks, tree stumps and tree roots, in hedges and on peaty banks. BBS distribution map
Look out for Atrichum undulatum, Diplophyllum albicans, Lepidozia reptans and Mnium hornum nearby.
scottishlichens.co.uk 