SafePlants

Pixie Cup Lichen and Other Cladonia Species

Lichens, often overlooked, are fascinating symbiotic organisms. Several species of cup lichens within the Cladonia genus are drawing attention for their unique characteristics and ecological roles.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant grows on logs on the forest floor, so be aware if your pet may ingest it.

Considerations for Children

• Some species of Cladonia may have small, cup-like structures.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Cladonia (genus)
• Common Names: Cup lichen, Pixie cup lichen (specifically Cladonia asahinae, Cladonia pyxidata, Cladonia chlorophaea), British Soldier Lichen (Cladonia cristatella), Elf Cup Lichen (Cladonia coccifera), Forest Trumpets

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Cladoniaceae
• Synonyms: Cladonia pyxidata var. pocillum (for Cladonia pocillum)

Distribution and Habitat

• Cladonia species are often found in boreal forests and subalpine sites.
• They typically grow on moss, fallen logs, rocks, or at the base of trees in areas like the Columbia River gorge and the Olympic Peninsula.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Cup lichens have upright fruiting stalks.
• They feature cup-shaped structures called podetia, which can vary in shape, size, and color (light-grey-green to greenish-grey). Some species resemble miniature golf tees or Shrek's ears.
• Some have funnel-shaped podetia tapering gradually towards the base, sometimes covered in corticate granules.
• Some cups have unbranched, round-toothed, and curled edges.

Ecological Role

• Cladonia lichens are a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.

Quirky Facts

• Historically, some cup lichens, like C. pyxidata, have been boiled with milk or syrup and used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.