Although the phylogeny of the genus Cladonia is still under investigation, two main morphological groups are commonly differentiated by taxonomists: the Cladonia morpho-type and the Cladina morpho-type. The Cladonia morpho-type has many more species, and is generally described as a group of squamulose (grow from squamules), cup-bearing lichens. The Cladina morpho-types are often referred to as forage lichens, mat-forming lichens, or reindeer lichens (due to their importance as caribou winter forage). Cladonia perforata ("perforate cladonia") is one of two on the U.S. Endangered Species List, and it should never be collected. It exists only in a few small populations in Florida. Several Cladonia species grow on sand dunes. The presence, and luxuriant carpet-like growth, of Cladonia species is one of the defining characters of grey dune, a priority habitat for conservation under the E.U. Habitats Directive.
Cup Lichen Care
Cladonia Pyxidata
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Humidity
Normal
Lighting
Part Sun
Difficulty
Medium
Hibernation
Cold Period
How to Care for the Plant
Water
lichensIn general, lichens do not like wet environments. They tend to be quite finicky about getting just the right amount of water. A reasonable amount of humidity is fine for most lichens, but a wet lichen will melt away quickly if it doesn't dry out. If you are caring for lichens, they like a moderately humid environment, but err on the side of keeping them drier rather than wetter. A quick spritz of water every other day will suffice in many cases. In their native environments, they will go dormant there is insufficient moisture for their needs. If your lichens go dormant, spritz them briefly to allow them to recover. They do not require fertilizer.
Pruning
They should need little to no regular cleanup, and they don't need pruning.
Fertilizer
They do not require fertilizer.
Sunlight
Light and temperature needs are dependent on the exact type of lichen. Some are happy in hot full sun, whereas others prefer a cool shady area. Take a look at how that specific lichen grows in its native environment for lighting clues.
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