SafePlants

Candle Snuffer Moss (Encalypta)

Considerations for Pets

• As a moss, Encalypta species are generally non-vascular plants. While this might reduce potential toxicity concerns, it's always best to prevent pets from ingesting any plant material.

Considerations for Children

• The common name "Candle Snuffer Moss" refers to the calyptra (hoodlike covering) of the capsule, which resembles a candle snuffer. These parts might be small and could present a choking hazard if detached.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Encalypta Hedw.
• Common Names: Candle Snuffer Moss, Fringed Candle Snuffer Moss, Alpine Candle Snuffer Moss, Yellow Awn Candle Snuffer Moss, Macoun's Candle Snuffer Moss, Siberian Candle Snuffer Moss.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Group: Moss
• Family: Encalyptaceae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms: The text mentions several species and varieties, including:
  • Encalypta vulgaris Hedw.
  • Encalypta vulgaris var. mutica
  • Encalypta ciliata Hedw.
  • Encalypta ciliata Hedw. var. microstoma Schimp.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Encalypta species are nonvascular plants (mosses).
• The calyptra (hoodlike covering) of the capsule resembles a candle snuffer, giving the moss its common name. In E. ciliata, this calyptra is fringed.

Quirky Facts

• The name "Candle Snuffer Moss" comes from the shape of the calyptra, which looks like a candle snuffer (an old tool used to extinguish candles).

Further Information

• The text mentions several resources for further information, including:
  • The Plant List
  • ToL (likely referring to the Tree of Life Web Project)
  • BHL (Biodiversity Heritage Library)
  • British Database of World Flora and Fauna
  • Flora of North America
  • USDA