The Two Main Different Types of Sea Moss

CHONDRUS CRISPUS

Chondrus Crispus grows around the coast of Ireland but also Great Britain, Maine, Canada, and other places where there are cooler waters.Irish Moss only grows on rocks. It can’t grow on ropes which is why it’s not often farmed and why supply can be limited. Both species grow on rocks however Genus Gracilara can grow on ropes too. Chondrus Crispus ONLY grows on rocks.Chondrus Crispus has flat fan-like wide shape tops that look like leaves or flowers to me at least. The color is typically dark purple however this can vary. Lastly, Chondrus Crispus has a stronger smell than Genus Gracilaria. Genus smells too but is mild in comparison to Irish Moss which might turn some people off.

GENUS GRACILARIA

Genus Gracilaria grows in warmer waters most popular Jamaica and St. Lucia. It’s not exclusive to these areas but these are the areas you often hear this species being sold from. Genus Gracilaria can grow on both rocks and ropes. Genus Gracilaria has a fingered relatively thin string like look to it.The color is typically a yellow golden color however this can vary.

Purple sea moss is another popular variety of sea moss you often see. It’s called “Jamaican Purple Sea Moss” and again is often misinterpreted as Irish Moss. Remember Irish Moss is the Chondrus Crispus species and not Genus Gracilaria regardless of the color.Just because Genus Graciliara comes in the color purple doesn’t make it Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss).