Description
Spike mosses mainly have a tropical distribution, growing in moist shaded habitats, aithough a few are found in deserts. They are terrestrial, perennial or annual plants, without true roots. The stems are usually branched, with small simple leaves that are arranged in four rows, with two rows having long leaves, and two with small leaves. A small outgrowth called ligule is located on the upper surface of each leaf, close to where it joins the stem.