Carolina Hornwort

Phaeoceros carolinianus

Phaeoceros carolinianus is a species of hornwort—a group of simple, non-vascular plants—that is found worldwide in damp, shaded areas. It forms flat, dark green, rosette-shaped patches measuring 10–20 mm in diameter on bare soil and rock surfaces. The plant is characterised by its horn-like spore capsules, which grow 40–60 mm tall, and for producing both male and female reproductive structures on the same plant. These features, along with its unique spore structure, distinguish it from closely related species like P. laevis.

Scientific name

Phaeoceros carolinianus

Family

Anthocerotaceae