ASCOMYCOTA | LECANOROMYCETES > LECANORALES > Parmeliaceae

Genus Evernia, meaning 'branched' - from the often much branched thallus

Common names:          Oak Moss or Stag Lichen

Synonym:                    -

Habitat:                         Open woodland, wayside trees

Substrata:                     Bark

Growth form:                Corticolous

Thallus:                  Fruiticose

Apothecia:                    Lecanorine, but rarely fertile

BLS identity rating:        Graded 1/5 (identification should be straightforward)

Anatomically foliose as the lobes have a separate upper and lower cortex, although in form they are usually described as being fruiticose as the thallus is effectively attached to the substratum at one point; the strap-like lobes are flattened, branch like antlers, often twisted and pendulous, and rather soft to the touch; upper surface green-grey to pale green-yellow, lower surface white, almost lacking photobiont, but often with green patches; the algae are mainly confined to the upperside of the lobes, so the underside is notably much paler - this feature helps to distinguish Evernia pruastri from Ramalina species, which are usually of a similar colour and texture all over, although other factors still need to be taken into consideration; apothecia are rare.

This species is very common on deciduous trees, particularly those in sunny, often exposed, locations rather than within sheltered woodland. It can be found on the trunk, but more often on branches and twigs.