Iceland Moss Lichen
Iceland Moss, Cetraria Islandica, (L.) Ach.Habit and habitat.-On earth.
Vegetative organ (thallus). -Cartilaginous and shrubby (fruticulose); usually brown above, lighter toward the base where there is sometimes a red stain.
Fruiting disks (apothecia).-Not numerous, shield-like and dark chestnut.
Branches.-Flattened, not hollow, rolled in on the margin which is beset with a fringe of dark-coloured hairs o.3 to 0.5 mm. long.
Name.-The specific name (Islandica) refers to the fact that this lichen is very abundant in Iceland.