Sphagnum fuscum an indicator of high depositions of sulphur and nitrogen in substrates. "S. fuscum" grows in areas with high sulphur and nitrogen depositions, which is concomitant with the decreased pH of the soil. Sphagnum has also been used historically for medicinal purposes. The moss itself has antimicrobial properties, and was therefore used as an effective filler for wounds to prevent infection. It also retains large amounts of moisture, which was quite useful in keeping the skin around a wound moist to prevent tissue death. Sphagnum fuscum Sphagnum fuscum, the rusty bogmoss or rusty peat moss, is a peat moss found commonly
Sphagnum fuscum Endangered species lists within some German states. Switzerland has labelled "S. fuscum" as vulnerable. In the United States, "S. fuscum" is reported to be at risk in the state of North Carolina. Across Europe, "S. fuscum’s" habitats are under protection. Germany and Switzerland have both placed the moss under “special protection.” This species is associated with "Sphagnum angustifolium", "S. fallax", "S. magellanicum", "S. papillosum", more infrequently with "S. teres", and "S. warnstorfii" in richer sites. "Sphagnum fuscum" is easily discernible from other species of Sphagnum, as it tends to be reddish brown in color, and is more likely to form