Thursday, February 26, 2009

Candy Lichen, Icmadophila ericetorum


The blue/pink color combination of this lichen is quite striking. The largest of the pink fruiting bodies (apothecia) are only about 1/10" in diameter.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Bull's-eye Lichen, Placopsis gelida

This 1" diameter lichen was found near Lucia Falls on the East Fork of the Lewis River in SW Washington.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Methuselah's Beard, Usnea longissima

It was surprising to see this 4 foot long lichen hanging all the way to the ground.

Monday, February 16, 2009

Nootka Rose, Rosa nutkana

This time of year (February) the only thing showing is some rose hips and a few thorns.



However, in spring it is an entirely different matter!


Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Common Witch's Hair, Alectoria sarmentosa

This 6" long hanging lichen was found 'dripping' off a tree branch near Lucia Falls last Sunday.

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Licorice Fern, Polypodium glycyrrhiza

Growing out of a clump of moss on a Maple tree, this fern has rhizomes that taste just like the name says.
The vertical rocks, shown here above Lucia Falls on the East Fork of the Lewis River in SW Washington, are no problem for this rather tenacious fern.

For some reason, the Licorice Ferns decided to take over this particular rock.

Spores on underside of frond

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Tiger Lily, Lillium columbianum


During this time of gray skies and drab vegetation, this brightly colored lily is a reminder of what is to come later in the year.