> See preserved reindeer moss on Etsy 2 | Cushion Moss Preserved cushion moss holds its typical fluffy texture really well. Known scientifically as Cladonia rangiferina, the ample natural supply of reindeer moss makes it one of the most widely available options on the market. Reindeer moss is by far one of the most abundant preserved mosses available on the market.īut, yes, what is commonly referred to as reindeer moss is a type of lichen, native to the arctic landscapes of Iceland and Norway, among others. 1 | Reindeer Moss Preserved reindeer moss comes in a variety of colours. Let’s look at the most common types of preserved moss. It’s worth noting, quickly, that preserved mosses are more typically referred to by common names, rather than Latin ones. This moss is considered ‘dormant’, one which could be revived if hydrated, but one that would eventually die if forgotten about completely.ĭried moss is also a popular option for decorative purposes but doesn’t have the same texture or liveliness as that of its preserved cousin.Īlthough I can’t see any reason why a type of moss couldn’t be preserved, there are typically three types more commonly found than any other.Įach has a significantly different appearance, and when combined create a natural atmosphere in which different colours and shapes weave throughout one another.

Is Preserved Moss the Same as Dried Moss?ĭried moss usually refers to a live moss that has been air-dried to remove its moisture content.

The moss, therefore, retains this state indefinitely, never growing nor decaying. Glycerol is a non-toxic, polyol compound that maintains the plushness and texture of the moss.Ī natural dye, often food-grade, is then applied to the moss to give it the desired colour, most often a natural green to emulate that which one might find in the wild. Preserved moss was once alive but has had its water content removed in place of glycerol, or another chemical agent (you can read how to preserve moss here). The short answer is no, but it is designed to look like it is.

So, what does it mean for something to be chemically preserved? Is preserved moss alive?

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