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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Reindeer moss
(Cladonia portentosa)
Also Known As
Reindeer moss, Reindeer lichen, Caribou moss, Candlestick lichen
About This Plant
Cladonia portentosa is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Cladoniaceae. It is also known as the British Soldiers lichen due to its resemblance to a line of soldiers. This lichen is a fruticose lichen, which means it is a lichen that grows upright or hangs down like a beard. It has a bright red apothecium or fruiting body that sits atop a slender stalk which can grow up to 10 cm (4 inches) tall.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Up to 10 cm (4 inches)
Light Requirements
Cladonia portentosa prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. Direct sunlight can damage the lichen.
Humidity Needs
Cladonia portentosa prefers high humidity levels. It can thrive in humid environments such as forests, but can also survive in drier areas.
Fertilizing Schedule
Cladonia portentosa does not require any fertilizer.
Pruning Guidelines
This lichen does not require pruning.
Common Pests and Diseases
Cladonia portentosa is not susceptible to pests or diseases.
Indoor Size Range
N/A
Watering Schedule
This lichen is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. It can absorb moisture from the air and rain.
Temperature Range
This lichen can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -20°C (-4°F) to 30°C (86°F). It can survive freezing temperatures and can resume growth once the temperature rises.
Growing Season
Cladonia portentosa can grow year-round, but it prefers to grow during the cooler months of the year.
Growing Difficulty Level
Cladonia portentosa is easy to grow, as it does not require special care or attention.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Cladonia portentosa is not a plant, therefore it does not have a USDA hardiness zone.
Did You Know?
Cladonia portentosa has been used as a natural dye for wool and other textiles. The red pigment produced by the lichen is called 'coccin'.
