Oak moss
Evernia prunastri
Family: Usneaceae
What it is like
A lichen. It mostly grows on deciduous trees such as oak, sycamore, willow and alder. It also grows on fences, walls, rocks and soil. It has soft hanging branches. They are grey-green above and are white and cottony underneath. They can produce pink-brown spore producing disks but these are rare.
There are about 10 Evernia species.
Where it is found
It needs a neutral substrate to grow on. Plants are damaged by polluted atmosphere and a sulphur level above 0.021 ppm.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, America, Asia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Egypt, Europe, Greece, India, Mediterranean, North Africa, Norway, Scandinavia, Turkey, Türkiye
How it is used for food
The lichen has a sweet smell and is eaten. It is mixed in bread as a leavening agent. Extracts from the lichen are used commercially to flavour baked goods, candy, drinks, soups and puddings. It is also fermented.
About 9,000 tons are collected annually
Edible parts
Lichen
How it is grown
It is difficult to cultivate but grows naturally.
It is very slow growing. Plants are collected in dry winter weather.
Its other names
Local names
Vetnicnik slivovy