SafePlants

*Cladonia* (Cup Lichen)

Cladonia, commonly known as cup lichen or pixie cup lichen, is a genus of moss-like lichens belonging to the family Cladoniaceae. They are often found on the forest floor, growing on logs, moss, or at the base of trees. These lichens are known for their distinctive cup-shaped fruiting bodies, or podetia, which resemble miniature cups or trumpets.

Considerations for Pets

• While the text does not specify toxicity, lichens are known to sometimes grow on decaying wood, which may harbor molds or other organisms that could be harmful if ingested by pets.
• Some Cladonia species have upright fruiting stalks that might be tempting for pets to chew on.

Considerations for Children

• The small, cup-like structures of the pixie cup lichen (approximately 1/2 inch high) could be a choking hazard for young children.
• The text mentions that some Cladonia species resemble "Shrek's Ears or miniature golf-tees," which might make them appealing to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cladonia
• Common Names: Cup lichen, Pixie cup lichen, Trumpet Lichen, British Soldier Lichen, Elf Cup Lichen
• Family: Cladoniaceae

Distribution and Habitat

• Cladonia species are found in various environments, including boreal forests, subalpine sites, and woodlands.
• They commonly grow on moss, rotting wood, acidic soil, and rock outcrops.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula and the Columbia River (Eagle Creek Trail).

Ecological Role

• Cladonia species are a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.
• They thrive in poor soils and exposed environments.

Morphological Characteristics

• Cladonia lichens are characterized by their moss-like appearance and distinctive cup-shaped structures (podetia).
• The podetia can vary in shape, sometimes resembling trumpets or golf tees.
• Some species have upright fruiting stalks and are covered in granules or soredia.
• The "pixie cup" appearance results from small, cup-like structures arising from a greenish-grey base.

Quirky Facts

• Some describe the appearance of Cladonia species as resembling "Shrek's Ears or miniature golf-tees, albeit somewhat battered and sand-blasted ones."
• Historically, boiling Cladonia with milk or syrup has been used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.