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. These lichens exhibit a fascinating morphology and play a crucial role in various ecosystems.

Considerations for Pets

• This lichen is often found on the forest floor and can be present on logs or at the base of trees, locations accessible to pets.
• Some species have cup-like structures, which might be of interest to curious animals.

Considerations for Children

• Some *Cladonia* species form small cup-like structures that might be tempting for children to touch or play with.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cladonia
• Common Names: Cup lichen, pixie cup lichen
• Family: Cladoniaceae
• Synonyms: *Cladonia pyxidata var. pocillum* (referring to *Cladonia pocillum*)

Distribution and Habitat

• Cladonia species are found in a variety of habitats, including boreal forests and subalpine sites.
• They often grow on mosses, logs, rocks, and poor soils.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula, Eagle Creek Trail in the Columbia River area, and the Pocono Mountains.

Morphological Characteristics

• Cladonia lichens are described as moss-like.
• They often feature cup-shaped structures (podetia).
• Podetia shapes vary among species, from funnel-shaped to miniature golf-tee like structures.
• Some species have upright fruiting stalks.
• The cup structures can be unbranched, round-toothed, and curled.
• Coloration includes greenish-grey and light-grey-green.
• Some species are described as having a "sprinkling of light-grey-green pixie dust".
• Soredia (small clusters of algal and fungal cells) are often abundant and farinose (powdery).

Quirky Facts

• Some find the shape of Cladonia podetia similar to Shrek's ears or miniature golf tees.
• One reference mentions adding a unicorn figurine to a space containing pixie cup lichens to "make some magic happen."

Ecological Role

• Cladonia lichens are a 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.