Evernia prunastri Oak Moss

Evernia prunastri is a very common epiphytic, foliose lichen. Although it is known as Oak Moss, it isn't a moss and it is not confined to oak. It grows on other deciduous trees and also on coniferous trees such as Japanese Larch. The strap-shaped thallus is grey-green or yellowish on top and white underneath. It often becomes detached from trees in high winds and then can be found scattered along pathways. Evernia prunastri contains a number of woody or mossy fragrant compounds that are used in the perfume industry, e.g Chypre fragrances. Ramalina farinacea is superficially similar to Evernia prunastri, but both the upper and lower surfaces of that epiphytic lichen are grey-green.