Sphagnum moss and cuckoo flax are different types of mosses that share many common characteristics. These plants are large in size and prefer high humidity. They lack true roots and reproduce by spores. However, there are some features that make up the difference between these bryophyte crops. So what exactly is the difference between sphagnum moss and cuckoo flax?
What mosses look like
Sphagnum, often called peat moss or bog moss, is a genus of higher spore crops of the Bryophyte department. Its name translates as “sponge”. This is due to the high absorbency, which is the distinguishing feature of this culture.
The plant is characterized by a white-green, brown or red color. The stem does not have rhizoids and has a regular bundle-branched structure. At the top of the stem, the branches form a head. They contain stem, single-layer, and branch leaves.
Initially, the plant develops a horizontal primary stem that has no leaves. After this, a secondary straight stem appears, which has narrow and long leaves, covering the entire plant. Each leaf has an assimilation plate and a large vein. At the bottom, the foliage has the shape of scales.
Their main differences
Comparison of the moss species under consideration can be carried out according to various parameters. The difference between them affects a number of aspects.
By area
The moss species in question are found in nature in different places. However, sphagnum primarily grows in swamps, and cuckoo flax - in forest or mountainous areas.
As for its habitat, the swampweed grows mainly in the temperate climate of the northern hemisphere and forms raised sphagnum bogs there. The culture is also found from tropical mountain zones to the Arctic regions of the planet.
Polytrichum is distributed in temperate latitudes in the northern hemisphere. It is also found in Mexico and several Pacific islands.There is a plant in Australia and New Zealand.
According to the structure of the stem
An important difference between the crops under consideration is their structure. Sphagnum has a branching stem. The leaves of the plant do not have a central rib. Moss has a soft and delicate texture. Kukushkin flax looks like a small Christmas tree. It has a straight stem with narrow leaves along which a central rib is located.
Plants can also be recognized by their color. Sphagnum moss often has a whitish tint. However, there are also brown, red, and ginger varieties. Polytrichum has a green tint.
By roots
Both types of mosses do not have a complete root system. However, cuckoo flax has formations in the form of rhizoids. They are thread-like processes that allow the moss to stay on the substrate and receive nutrition. Sphagnum lacks such a system and does not have any semblance of roots. It is able to absorb moisture like a sponge.
For disputes
The differences between different cultures lie in the boxes filled with spores. In sphagnum they resemble small beads. Sporangia of cuckoo flax are distinguished by their elongated shape. In addition, they have a cap covered with hairs.
By application
Sphagnum is actively used in medicine. This is due to the presence of a special acid in its cells that kills bacteria. Previously, the plant was used as a dressing material. This is due to its ability to absorb a lot of moisture. Polytrichum is often used as insulation.
Comparison table
The main differences between the cultures under consideration are summarized in the table:
| Criterion | Sphagnum | Kukushkin flax |
| Class | Sphagnum mosses | Leaf mosses |
| Habitat | Swamps and forests | Forest and mountainous areas |
| Roots | None. | There are rhizoids. |
| Stem | Straight, branching. | Straight, does not branch. |
The moss species under consideration have a number of features and differences. The difference between them concerns appearance, growth characteristics, habitats and areas of use.
