Crisped Pincushion - Ulota crispa

Very similar to Ulota bruchii and detailed examination may be necessary to separate these species. Forms yellowish-green cushions with a blackish-brown lower part to each shoot. The upper leaves of U. crispa are 2 to 3.5 mm long. Some plants cannot be confidently named without microscopic examination of the peristome. Leaves are spearhead-shaped, and the nerve ends in or below the tip. A more reliable distinguishing feature is provided by mature (but not yet senescent) capsules: those of U. crispa are wide-mouthed and narrow immediately below the mouth, whereas those of U. bruchii taper to a narrow mouth. However, even some plants with mature capsules cannot confidently be ascribed to one or other of these two species, except by microscopical examination of features of their capsules.

Ulota bruchii (see above).

Grows on the twigs and branches of many species of tree and shrub.

All year round.

Widespread and fairly frequent over much of Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.