Common Greenshield Lichen

Common Greenshield Lichen Flavoparmelia caperata

Identification
This lichen has pale green leafy lobes with powdery surface.

Location
Common statewide

Size
Two to six inch patches

Diet
It absorbs nutrients from rain and air.

Habitat
It occurs in forests and suburban trees.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It grows on bark and rock in moist shaded areas. It remains visible year round.

Lifecycle
Reproduction occurs through soredia and fragments.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has long been widespread in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It is harmless to trees.

Facts
It is sensitive to air pollution.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Airborne nutrients moisture | Tree bark rocks | Statewide