Species yellow lichen
yellow-orange fungus on gray-brown bark with green stem

yellow lichen

Xanthoria spp.

Yellow lichen (Xanthoria spp.) is a species of lichen commonly found on trees and rocks around the world. This species is bright yellow in color and can be identified by its circular lobes with farinose (powdery) margins and dark spots. It grows as a foliose (leafy) lichen, with its flattened, leafy thallus forming small cushions on its substrate. Yellow lichens are the most widespread lichens in nature, and are unique among lichens for their hardiness to environmental conditions. They are considered highly tolerant of air pollution, making them a valuable indicator species for detecting long-term air contamination.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Spore Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

yellow,orange Fruits In Spring Ready In Fall

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

Yellow lichen (Xanthoria spp.) should be watered lightly every 7-10 days during active growth periods. When watering, avoid saturating the soil; water enough to lightly moisten the soil. If the soil consistently feels dry to the touch, increase intervals to approximately every 5-7 days. During winter dormancy, water less frequently or not at all.

sunlight

Yellow lichen (Xanthoria spp.) requires direct sunlight in order to survive and thrive. The amount of sunlight needed will depend on the environment in which the plant is found and is typically between 4 and 6 hours of direct sun each day. Generally speaking, yellow lichen grows best when it receives morning sun and afternoon shade, as too much direct sun can be damaging to the plants. Depending on the climate, yellow lichen may be able to survive with less sun and still remain healthy, but sun is essential for optimal growth. This species of lichen prefers warm, dry regions with plenty of direct sunlight.

pruning

Yellow lichen (Xanthoria spp.) is best pruned during the spring and fall seasons. Pruning should only be done to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. When pruning, use sharp bypass shears to make clean cuts just above a lateral bud. Do not remove more than 25–30% of the total canopy. Pruning should typically only be done to improve the plant's shape, increase airflow for better pest management, and maintain a desired size.

Hardiness Map