Ulota crispa is a acrocarpous moss which can generally be found in tight tufted mounds on the bark of trees. When dry the mosses leaves will become highly twisted and crisp, upon wetting the leaves will spread out into a star like formation. Ulota crispa can be differentiated from other Ulota species by the 8 ribs/teeth present on the mature capsule. The capsules are normally slightly raised above the upper leaves of the moss, with a short seta. Ulota crisps is the most common moss found on trees at Hoxie Gorge. (If plant lies nearly flat to the tree and is reddish brown check Frullania eboracensis.)
Compared to:
Orthotrichum sordidum– The capsules are inserted within the leaves with the seta hidden by leaves