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.

Considerations for Pets

• Cladonia species are described as moss-like lichens. This growth habit might be tempting for pets to investigate or ingest.
• Some species have cup-like structures, which could potentially collect small amounts of water or debris.

Considerations for Children

• The "pixie cup" name and small cup-like structures might make this lichen appealing to children, potentially leading to handling or ingestion.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cladonia
• Common Names: Cup lichen, Pixie cup lichen
• Family: Cladoniaceae

Distribution and Habitat

• Cladonia species are found in various habitats, including forests, on logs, at the base of trees, on rock outcrops, and in subalpine sites with poor soils.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula, Columbia River (Eagle Creek Trail), and the Pocono Mountains.
• They are described as boreal lichens, occurring across the boreal forest.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Cladonia are moss-like lichens with upright fruiting stalks.
• They often have cup-shaped structures (podetia), sometimes described as funnel-shaped and tapering towards the base.
• The exterior of the podetia can be variably clothed with corticate granules.
• Some species have small, cup-like structures arising from a greenish-grey base.

Ecological Role

• Cladonia species are the primary food source for reindeer and caribou.

Traditional Uses

• Historically, Cladonia has been boiled with milk or syrup and used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments. Specific reference is made to C. pyxidata for this use.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Cladonia is a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungus.
• It can grow among mosses.
• It can be found growing in colonies with other lichens like Cladonia macilenta.

Quirky Facts

• The shape of some Cladonia species is likened to "Shrek's Ears" or miniature golf tees.

Further Information

• The text references the Lichen Society.
• ResearchGate is mentioned as a resource for scientific publications on Cladonia.