The mosses in this family have three rows of leaves. The two larger ones on either side of the stem form the main visible part of the frond, while underneath the stem is the third row, smaller than the other leaves. Some species in this family have an umbrella shape to them.

One of the most beautiful of our mosses. It is often known as "Umbrella Moss". However that name is also used for some other mosses belonging to the Hypnodendraceae family.

This one has a third row of smaller leaves under the stem, whereas those in the Hypnodendraceae family do not have their leaves arranged in that way.

All the 'umbrella mosses' tend to form dense clumps on the ground or at bases of pungas.

This species is a pale yellow-green colour. It is quite distinctive once you have recognised it although in this photo you might think it looks like Catharomnion ciliatum. It doesn't have cilia on the edges of the leaves like Catharomnion which is also smaller and found in more open areas.

This moss also has a pale colour.

The specimens I have found have always been on tree trunks in damp gullies near streams.

More umbrella mosses also belong to the Hypnodendraceae