E-Flora BC: Electronic Atlas of the Flora of British Columbia

Species description:
Genus name honouring J.E. Pohl, a German physician. Species name referring to last year's growth, the significance of which is not clear.

Reproduction:
Clusters of gemmae are abundant and pale green, especially from autumn until spring; sporophytes are relatively frequent, red-brown when mature in late spring.

Distinguishing characteristics:
When bearing gemmae, these quickly identify P. annotina. The sporangia lack any hint of glossiness, a feature of the genus. The widely spaced marginal teeth also characterize the genus.

Habit:
Loose, glossy, pale green to yellow-green turfs with reddish stems, at least in lower parts.

Similar Species:
Many other species of Pohlia resemble P. annotina, and gemmae are frequently needed to distinguish them. Gemmae differ in colour and form among the species but need microscopic examination for discrimination. From Bryum, the toothed leaves and non­glossy sporangia are usually enough to separate these genera.