Common Powderhorn Lichen Cladonia coniocraea

Identification
This lichen has small upright stalks with powdery coating.

Location
Common statewide

Size
One to three inch stalks

Diet
It absorbs nutrients from rain and dust.

Habitat
It occurs in forests and shaded soils.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It forms colonies on decaying wood and soil. It persists through winter.

Lifecycle
Reproduction occurs through powdery soredia.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has long been present in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It is harmless and easily overlooked.

Facts
It is an early colonizer of disturbed soil.

Sources
ODNR NatureServe

Airborne nutrients moisture | Logs soil tree bases | Statewide