Lichens : Lecanorales : ParmeliaceaeLichens

Xanthoparmelia conspersa (Ehrh. ex Ach.) Hale

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Xanthoparmelia conspersa

Description: This striking, yellow-green, foliose lichen occurs widely on upland siliceous rocks, dry stone walls and boulders around Ireland. The stick-like projections (isidia) from the shiny, upper surface of the thallus should help identify it. In areas without natural acid rock outcrops, it is sometimes found on roofing tiles or in old churchyards. It is common in Ireland, especially in the west and south-west.

Key Identification Features:

  • The shiny lobes, colour, abundant isidia and habitat should be sufficient for identification
  • Its yellow-green colour helps to distinguish it from most similar species. Flavoparmelia caperata is similar and may occur on rock, but is sorediate (coarse-powdery) and never isidiate.

Original text submitted by Simon Davey

Distribution Map from NBN: Xanthoparmelia conspersa at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Xanthoparmelia conspersa at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.

 Giavarini, Vince J., Simms, Michael J., & Davey, Simon, 2026. Xanthoparmelia conspersa. (Ehrh. ex Ach.) Hale. [In] Lichen Ireland.
https://www.habitas.org.uk/lichenireland/species.php?item=18870. Accessed on 2026-11-12.