Coastal Reindeer Lichen
Cladina portentosa subsp. pacifica
Description: A medium to large pale yellow-green almost coral-like lichen, forms in small "shrubs" generally up to 10cm tall from a distinct main stem in threes of hollow branches.
Ecology: This Reindeer Lichen is found only in coastal habitats but is often locally very abundant, forming extensive mats in open locations. Commonly found on rocky bluffs and outcrops near the ocean.
Notes: This one was found on a rocky cliff overhanging the ocean in Sechelt Inlet, May 2001. It was part of a group of several that were growing with kinnickinick, trumpet honeysuckle and other common coastal species.
Cladina mitis
Description: This relative of the Reindeer Lichen is a medium sized more or less upright pale yellowish green shrub lichen with a distinct main stem that tends to branch into fours, its surface is more uniformly cottony than the Reindeer Lichen. Like C. portentosa, C. mitis also tastes mild.
Ecology: Found growing on the ground in open forests at lower elevations.
Notes: This one was found at Klein Lake, August 2002.
Cladina rangifera
Description: Highly branched (in 3-4’s) fruticose lichen. Branches are whitish or greyish, erect and up to 10cm tall, usually lacking apothecia. Reacts K+Y, P+R, UV-.
Ecology: Grows on humus or soil over rock often in talus slopes and outcrops on moist slopes, narrow valleys and canyon slopes. Circumpolar range to Oregon, rare in our area.
Notes: C. mitis and C. arbuscula have a yellowish rather than greyish colour to them, C. portentosa is only found in coastal areas and forms rounded heads, and Cladonia furcata is never as highly branched. This one was found growing in a boggy area on the edge of Powell Lake in Powell River, BC, summer 2005 photo.
Common Christmas Tree
Sphaerophorus globosus
Description: A medium sized tufted shrub lichen 2-6cm tall with whitish or greenish brown solid shiny stems; heavily branched with stiff branches. May bear terminal ball shaped fruiting bodies, no soredia.
Ecology: Very common, found on tree trunks and branches of conifers in open or slightly shaded forests at low to middle elevations.
Notes: This picture was taken at low elevation at Klein Lake August 2002, but it is also very common at middle elevations on the Sunshine Coast.
