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Weeping moss (Vesicularia ferriei)

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Weeping moss

Beginner

Vesicularia ferriei

An aquatic moss with bright green, teardrop-shaped shoots that hang downward. Draped from branches of wood it adds depth and shadow to a layout. Undemanding and fairly quick-growing.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
20〜28℃
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
1–3 cm tall with drooping shoots
Watering
Little CO2 or fertiliser needed

About

Weeping moss (Vesicularia ferriei, Hypnaceae) is believed to come from China and was spread by a South-East Asian aquatic plant nursery. 'Weeping' describes its habit: bright green, teardrop-shaped shoot tips hang downward, the feature that separates it from willow moss and South American moss, which spread sideways or upward. It is a fleshy moss about 1–3 cm tall; attached to branches or roots of driftwood its drooping growth adds depth and contrast. It is undemanding, growing in medium light with little CO2, and fairly fast, so trim it often with scissors to keep its shape. GBIF treats names described from Japan, such as Vesicularia japonica, as synonyms of this species. Tissue-culture cups are produced for aquaria. It is a staple moss at specialist shops in Japan.

Size of the Weeping moss

The Weeping moss grows to 1–3 cm tall with drooping shoots.

Basic Info

Origin

Believed to come from China

Lifespan

Perennial

Size

1–3 cm tall with drooping shoots

Temperature

20〜28℃

Watering & Fertilizer

Little CO2 or fertiliser needed

Growing Tips

Lighting

Grows in medium light.

CO2 & Fertilizer

Manages with little CO2.

Water Temperature & Quality

Undemanding about water; keep within normal tropical tank temperatures.

Substrate & Attachment

Tie it to branches or roots of driftwood to show off its drooping habit.

Trimming & Propagation

Grows fairly fast; trim often with scissors. Trimmings can be tied elsewhere.

Cautions

Attach it high up so it can hang. Never release plants into the wild.

MossEpiphyteBeginnerDriftwood layout

Weeping moss FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Weeping moss?
A

Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.

QHow large does Weeping moss get?
A

The mature size of Weeping moss is 1–3 cm tall with drooping shoots. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Weeping moss?
A

Weeping moss: watering & fertilizer — Little CO2 or fertiliser needed. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Weeping moss?
A

The price of Weeping moss varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: September 23, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Vesicularia ferriei (Cardot & Thér.) Broth.

Synonyms: Ectropothecium ferriei Cardot & Thér., Vesicularia japonica Broth.

Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Not listed in CITES (no match in Species+). Not regulated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act or Species Conservation Act. Never dump aquatic plants into rivers, ponds or ditches, or flush them away with tank water. Drain unwanted plants and trimmings and dispose of them as household waste.

Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species Act)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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