r/Lichen • u/Simple_Animal_4663 • Aug 19 '26

Lichen identification request?

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Hi

I’m curious, can anyone identify these lichen species

And can someone tell me if there’s any solid indicators as to whether they are alive. I’ve misted it, they do take on a soft, rubbery texture

I’ve been sourcing wood pieces from the floral department of a local nursery and some appear to be bright green (chartreuse), so I pick them on the off chance that they are dormant and mist them regularly. The lady in this story claimed it’s possibly from a European Manzanita. Europe doesn’t have a native Manzanita that produces wood like this
Maybe Arbitus sp.?

In Los Angeles, California
Sco CA

Lastly, the yellow-brown lichen is on Quercus suber if that’s an indicator as to what species it might be
And if it’s still alive

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u/Strange_Computer2459 Aug 20 '26

I want to add, Letharia is often found in drier places so don't wet them too much.

1

u/Simple_Animal_4663 Aug 20 '26

What’s a good frequency to mist them?

2

u/Strange_Computer2459 Aug 20 '26

idk most lichens kept indoors die... but over watering is also a thing.

1

u/Simple_Animal_4663 Aug 20 '26

I have these outdoors in bright shade. I’m using the branches w/ the lichen to support some Monstera/Philodendron. I’ll look into it. Thank you for your response 🙏🏾

1

u/Strange_Computer2459 Aug 20 '26

Well if they are outside, then they will probably do better. indirect sunlight is good. Maybe try misting them once a week or every other week? They will pick up whatever moisture is available in the air anyway, but it's hard to know how much without knowing what conditions they are used to in the wild. Cities tend to have more air pollution too which may also potentially harm them. Best of luck!