English name: Common smoothcap
An acrocarpous moss that is a loosely tufted and can form extensive patches. Stems are erect and unbranched, with long, pointed leaves that are transversely undulate when moist and strongly crisped when dry. The leaf margins are teethed. The cylindrical capsule has a beaked lid and held inclined on a reddish seta.
Capsules mature in winter.
In Scotland, Atrichum undulatum is widespread among rocks and on flushed ground on moorland, in lowland woodland, on riverbanks and hedgebanks, and in churchyards, parks and garden. BBS distribution map
Look out for Pellia epiphylla, Kindbergia praelonga and Mnium hornum nearby.
Confusion species: Mnium hornum, Plagiomnium undulatum
scottishlichens.co.uk 