Mosses in the genus Bartramia form "tufts" or "cushions" of plants 2–12 cm (0.8–5 in) high.

The stems are branched but not in whorls, with the outer layer formed of small cells and the central strand prominent.

The upper cells are linear or rectangular, more elongated near the leaf base and pimply near the ends of the lumen.

[1][2][3] The genus Bartramia was first formally described in 1801 by the German botanist Johann Hedwig and published in Species muscorum frondosorum.

[2][5] Species include:[2][6] Mosses in the genus Bartramia are found throughout the world but most often in temperate and mountainous areas, especially those with a humid climate.