Fissidens Fontanus

Fissidens fontanus (Phoenix Moss)

Fissidens fontanus, often called Phoenix Moss, is a highly decorative aquatic moss known for its fine, feathery dark green fronds. It attaches itself to driftwood or rocks using tiny rhizoids, forming compact cushions or lush, lawn-like mats that bring elegance and texture to any aquascape.

This species is also found in trade under names such as Fissidens geppii and has a range of synonyms in botanical literature. We cultivate two variants—one larger and one smaller. The smaller form, known as Phoenix Moss, develops delicate 3–5 mm leaflets, a darker green coloration, and a more compact, branched growth habit, making it especially suited for nano tanks and fine aquascaping details.

Though slower and more demanding than many common mosses, Phoenix Moss rewards aquarists with its refined, unique look. Best grown as an epiphyte attached to hardscape, it thrives in soft, slightly acidic water and cooler conditions.

• Common name: Phoenix Moss

• Scientific name: Fissidens fontanus (Bach. Pyl.) Steudel

• Family: Fissidentaceae

• Genus: Fissidens

• Synonyms: Fissidens debilis, Fissidens julianus, Fissidens mexicanus, Fissidens tuerckheimii, Fontinalis juliana, Octodiceras dillenii

• Misapplied names: Fissidens geppii, Fissidens nobilis

• Difficulty: Difficult

• Growth rate: Medium

• Placement: Foreground, midground, epiphyte on rocks or wood, nano tanks

• Aquascaping style: Fine-leaved, compact moss

• Water parameters: pH 5–7 | Temperature 4–26 °C | KH 0–14 °dKH | GH 0–30 °dGH

• Propagation: Splitting, cutting off daughter plants

• Can grow emersed: Unknown

A challenging but rewarding moss, Fissidens fontanus adds an exclusive, delicate touch to aquascapes, making it a favorite among advanced aquarists.