SafePlants

Cladonia (Cup Lichen)

Cladonia, commonly referred to as cup lichen, is a genus of moss-like lichens belonging to the family Cladoniaceae.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Cladonia species have upright fruiting stalks.

Considerations for Children

• One species, Cladonia asahinae, is commonly known as the pixie cup lichen. The pixie cup looks like a tiny cup (approximately 1/2 inch high).
• The podetia (stalks) of certain cup lichens are shaped like miniature golf tees.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Cladonia
• Family: Cladoniaceae
• Species: Examples include Cladonia asahinae (pixie cup lichen), Cladonia pyxidata, Cladonia borealis, Cladonia fimbriata, Cladonia cristatella (British Soldier Lichen), Cladonia pityrea (Pityrea Lichen), Cladonia chlorophaea, Cladonia coccifera (Elf Cup Lichen), Cladonia monomorpha, Cladonia pocillum, and Cladonia bellidiflora.
• Synonyms: Cladonia pyxidata var. pocillum is listed as another name for Cladonia pocillum.

Distribution and Habitat

• Cladonia species are found across the boreal forest.
• They frequently grow on moss, particularly Chorisodontium.
• They can be found on logs or at the base of trees on the forest floor.
• Some species thrive in exposed subalpine sites, growing on poor soils and fallen logs.
• Cladonia fimbriata grows among mosses on Devonian Red Sandstone boulders.
• Cladonia chlorophaea is common on rotting stumps in wet lowland areas, such as the Olympic Peninsula.
• They can also be found on rock outcrops.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• They are moss-like lichens.
• Some species have cup-shaped fruiting bodies or stalks (podetia).
• The podetia can be funnel-shaped, tapering towards the base.
• The exterior of the podetia is variably clothed with corticate granules.
• Some species have upright fruiting stalks.
• Cups can be unbranched, round-toothed, and curled.

Ecological Role

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

Traditional Uses

• When boiled with milk or syrup, some Cladonia species have been used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• As a lichen, this plant is composed of algae and fungus in a symbiotic relationship.
• Cladonia scales can grow in lichen colonies alongside other species like Cladonia macilenta.

Quirky Facts

• The podetia of some species are likened to "Shrek's Ears."