Taxon
Usnea cornuta s. lat.
Synonyms
Usnea ceratina var. incurvescens; Usnea inflata; Usnea intexta; Usnea intexta var. constrictula
Conservation Status
LC (Key)
BLS Number
1469
Taxon Photo
General Description
The dull grey-green thallus is usually erect and tufted, up to 6 cm long with the main branches to 1.5 mm diameter with branching at wide angles. Where the lateral branches join the main stem, there is a narrowing often with a white ring. There is no blackening at the base of the main stem. Small soralia and abundant isidia may cover areas on branches.
Identification
Chemistry: Medulla K+ yellow turning red and Pd+ yellow turning orange/red.
Similar species: Usnea flammea has a similar habitat but there is no narrowing of branches at the joints.
See also Fungi of Great Britain and Ireland
Habitats
On mossy woodland and wayside trees, more rarely on siliceous rocks.
Distribution Map
Distribution
To the west and south of Britain and Ireland.
References
Text by David Brabban
Description