Flame Moss (Taxiphyllum sp. Flame) Care Guide

A unique moss with upward-growing fronds that twist and curl like flickering flames. Creates a dramatic vertical texture unlike any other moss, especially stunning when attached to driftwood.

Overview

Taxiphyllum sp. Flame is an aquatic plant in the family Hypnaceae. A unique moss with upward-growing fronds that twist and curl like flickering flames. Creates a dramatic vertical texture unlike any other moss, especially stunning when attached to driftwood.

Taxonomy

Family: Hypnaceae
Genus: Taxiphyllum
Scientific name: Taxiphyllum sp. Flame
Other names: Taxiphyllum Flame

Habitat

A moss in the family Hypnaceae from Southeast Asia. Distinguished by vertically twisting fronds that resemble flames, in contrast to the trailing habit of most aquarium mosses. Attaches to driftwood and stone via rhizoids.

Growth requirements

Light: low (≈30-50 PAR at substrate)
CO2: optional (CO2 improves growth and coloration)
Temperature: 18-28 °C
pH: 5.5-7.5
GH: 2-15 °dGH
Substrate: any (rootless or floating)
Nutrient demand: low
Growth rate: slow
Difficulty: beginner

Placement

Recommended placement: midground
Maximum height: 15 cm
Trim every: 30 days

Propagation

In cultivation the plant is propagated by vegetative division or fragmentation.