SPHAGNUM

sphagnum, sphagnum moss, peat moss, bog moss

(noun) any of various pale or ashy mosses of the genus Sphagnum whose decomposed remains form peat

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

From the genus name.

Noun

sphagnum (plural sphagnums)

Any of various widely distributed mosses, of genus Sphagnum, which slowly decompose to form peat.

Synonym: peat moss

Source: Wiktionary

Sphag"num, n. Etym: [NL., fr/ Gr. (Bot.)

Definition: A genus of mosses having white leaves slightly tinged with red or green and found growing in marshy places; bog moss; peat moss.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition