Bristly fringe-moss
Racomitrium heterostichum agg. consists of Racomitrium heterostichum s. str., Racomitrium affine and Racomitrium obtusum.
An acrocarpous moss that forms loose patches of hoary plants. Each stem has several branches, and the leaves have hairpoints. The narrow capsules are held on a long seta.
Capsules mature in spring.
In Scotland, Racomitrium heterostichum agg. is widespread in upland areas where it seeks out rocky habitats including boulders on hillsides, rockfaces and drystane dykes. BBS distribution map
Look out for Andreaea rupestris, Hedwigia stellata, Racomitrium fasciculare and Racomitrium lanuginosum nearby.
Confusion species: Racomitrium lanuginosum
scottishlichens.co.uk 