Evernia mesomorpha Nyl.

Boreal oakmoss, ring lichen

About plant names...

Boreal oakmoss is found in coniferous forests in cooler climates. In North America, it is found throughout Canada and in the northern United States.

Identification: This is a fruticose (shrublike) lichen, though its thicker branches remind me a bit of antlers. (Beard lichens and reindeer lichens have thinner branches.) Boreal oakmoss is a pale yellowish green, and the branches are pliable, not brittle. Branches are wrinkled and irregular, more so if tiny reproductive structures called soredia are present.

Edibility: Contains usnic acid, which causes severe dermatitis in some people, and, although this is not confirmed, may cause liver damage if eaten.

Online References:

Stephen Sharnoff Photography

The Consortium of North American Lichen Herbaria

Canadian Wilderness

The USDA Forest Service State and Private Forestry Northeastern Area Lichens Growing on Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra) Trees in the Northeast

Wikimedia Commons

Macrolichens of North America

References:

Walewski, Joe, Lichens of the North Woods, Kollath+Stensaas Publishing, 2007, p. 133

Evernia mesomorpha description by Thomas H. Kent, last updated 25 May 2020.

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8/15/2015 · Grafton Notch State Park, Newry, Maine
≈ 6 × 4" (16 × 10 cm)

4/7/2010 · Nashua River Rail Trail, Groton, Mass­a­chu­setts
≈ 4½ × 7" (11 × 17 cm) ID is uncertain

8/22/2020 · Kettle Hole Bog, Hidden Valley Nature Center, Jefferson, Maine
≈ 6 × 4" (14 × 10 cm)

4/19/2013 · Squannacook River Wildlife Area, Townsend, Mass­a­chu­setts
≈ 5 × 3½" (13 × 9.2 cm)