Common haircap (Polytrichum commune)

Family: Polytrichaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Polytrichum commune is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. The flowers are pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None Known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Typically grows in bogs, wet heathland and along forest streams. (Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)