Mossplant (Harrimanella hypnoides, Proc. Washington Acad. Sci. 3:575, fig. 66. 1901)

Family: Ericaceae

Author: Coville

Bibliography: Proc. Washington Acad. Sci. 3:575, fig. 66. 1901

Year: 1834

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Harrimanella

Vegetable: False

Observations: Unknown

Description

The plant known as Mossplant, scientifically referred to as Harrimanella hypnoides, belongs to the Ericaceae family, a diverse group of flowering plants. Mossplant was meticulously documented by the botanist Coville in a publication within the Proceedings of the Washington Academy of Sciences (Volume 3, Page 575, Figure 66) in the year 1901. This early 20th-century documentation provides a foundational understanding of the species, though specific ecological observations about Harrimanella hypnoides remain sparse.

Harrimanella hypnoides, or Mossplant, is a species of interest for botanists and plant enthusiasts due to its distinctive features and its affiliation with the rich and varied Ericaceae family. This family is known for its members that typically thrive in acidic, well-drained soils and often include shrubs, small trees, and evergreens, many of which possess beautiful and intricate foliage and flowers.

Despite the abundance of flora cataloged within the Ericaceae family, Harrimanella hypnoides stands out due to its unique growth characteristics that resemble a bed of moss, hence its common name, Mossplant. The specific environmental roles, reproductive habits, and habitat preferences of Mossplant invite further exploration and study. As our understanding and appreciation of biodiversity expand, documenting the intricacies of plants like Harrimanella hypnoides not only enhances our botanical knowledge but also aids in conservation efforts to protect these unique species and their natural environments.

The description provided by Coville in 1901 remains a vital piece of historical botanical literature, preserving the initial scientific observations and classifications of this intriguing plant. While contemporary studies may build upon Coville’s work, it is this early documentation that serves as a critical reference point for those looking to explore the fascinating world of Mossplant and its relatives within the Ericaceae family.

Common Names

Nor: finnebrisk, mossalyng
Swe: mossljung
Eng: mossplant, moss heather, moss bell heather
Fra: cassiope hypnoïde
Sme: sámilruvdorássi
En: Mossplant, Moss heather, Moss bell heather
Fr: Cassiope hypnoïde
Se: Sámilruvdorássi
No: Finnebrisk, Mossalyng
Sv: Mossljung

Synonyms

Distribution

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Oct 8, 2021 by russ docksteader (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 18, 2019 by John John Hardham (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2021 by bernard Parrin (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 15, 2022 by legro bob (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 13, 2020 by Lyn Renee (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 28, 2022 by Jean Pierre Maillet (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2882793)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Harrimanella hypnoides (L.) Coville)

Specifications

Growth