SafePlants

Cladonia: The Enchanting Cup Lichen

Discover the fascinating world of Cladonia, a genus of lichens commonly known as cup lichens or pixie cup lichens. These moss-like organisms belong to the family Cladoniaceae and are a vital part of various ecosystems.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Cladonia species may grow on logs or at the base of trees.
• Cladonia species can be found in terrariums.

Considerations for Children

• The "pixie cup" shape might attract children's attention.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Cladonia (cup lichen)
• Family: Cladoniaceae
• Note: As a lichen, Cladonia is a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungus. The scientific name of a lichen refers to its fungal component.

Common Names

• Cup Lichen
• Pixie Cup Lichen
• Trumpet Lichen

Synonyms and Variations

• Cladonia pyxidata var. pocillum

Distribution and Habitat

• Cladonia species are boreal lichens, commonly found across the boreal forest.
• They thrive in exposed subalpine sites where they grow on poor soils and fallen logs.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula, Columbia River (Eagle Creek Trail), and the Pocono Mountains.

Ecological Role

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

Morphological Characteristics

• Cladonia species are moss-like lichens.
• They often feature cup-like structures arising from a greenish-grey base.
• Podetia (stalks) can be funnel-shaped, tapering towards the base, and may be clothed with corticate granules.
• Pixie cups typically reach about 1/2 inch in height.
• Some species have upright fruiting stalks.

Specific Species

• Cladonia asahinae: Commonly known as the pixie cup lichen, it grows on moss, particularly Chorisodontium.
• Cladonia pyxidata: The pyxie cup lichen, featuring small cups.
• Cladonia cristatella: British Soldier Lichen, a type of cup lichen.
• Cladonia fimbriata: Fringed cup lichen, grows among mosses on sandstone boulders.
• Cladonia chlorophaea: False Pixie Cup.
• Cladonia coccifera: Elf Cup Lichen.
• Cladonia monomorpha: Characterized by thallus lobes with narrowly recurved edges.
• Cladonia pocillum: Cup Lichen.
• Cladonia bellidiflora: Cup Lichen.

Quirky Facts

• Cladonia has been described as shaped like Shrek's Ears or miniature golf tees.
• Boiled with milk or syrup, Cladonia has been traditionally used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.