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Plant Freshwater Care: easy

Spiky Moss

Taxiphyllum sp. 'Spiky'
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Other names: Taxiphyllum sp. 'Spiky'
Group: Epiphytes and mosses · Family: Hypnaceae · Origin: Asia (exact origin unknown)

A moss that forms long, stiff, pointed triangular shoots; larger and faster-growing than Christmas moss. Hardy, it gives a distinct texture when covering driftwood and stones.

Last updated October 16, 2026

Temperature
18–28°C
pH
6–7.5
Hardness
2–15 dGH
Light
Low
CO₂
Beneficial
Growth
Medium
Placement
Attach to rock/wood
Height
Up to 6 cm

Water parameters

Temperature18–28°C
pH6–7.5
General hardness (GH)2–15 dGH
Recommended range

Overview

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

Spiky moss is placed in the same genus as Java moss, but its shoots are clearly longer, stiffer and more pointed. The branches spread out in long triangles; it looks similar to Christmas moss but larger and more "spiky". It grows faster than other neat mosses and is very easy to care for, which makes it a good moss choice for beginners.

Planting and Placement

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

It is secured in a thin layer to driftwood or stone with cotton thread, fishing line or gel glue. For a moss wall it can also be placed between two meshes.

Care and Fertilization

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit
  • Light: Low to medium; under medium light the shoots grow denser.
  • CO₂: Not required.
  • Fertilizer: Liquid fertilizer and fish waste are enough.
  • Trim the lengthening shoots regularly and collect the cut pieces. Cut pieces can be tied elsewhere to propagate it.

Propagation

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Common Problems

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Hobbyist notes

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Things you won't find in books, learned by trial and error. The most helpful ones are on top.

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Change history and contributors
  1. Page created · October 16, 2026