So, this is basically one of my favorite names, because when I look at this lichen, I kinda get it! And it’s interesting to me that however it got its name was when people still had the concept of shields on their minds. I don’t think the general populous thinks about shields that much anymore, unless you’re really into Marvel movies.
Alternate Names: Powdered Crottle, Cracked-shield Lichen Size: Varies Family: Parmeliaceae Habitat: Common in the northern and southern hemispheres, typically growing on trees and rocks, but not soil. Identification: "greenish-gray to whitish-gray, more or less circular in outline, and divided into branches (lobes). The lobes are flat, 1/16″ to 3/16″ (2 to 5 mm) wide, widely spreading, overlapping, and touching but separate, not fused together. The tips are abruptly squared, as if cut off (truncate). The upper surface is shiny but sometimes has a white, flour-like or frost-like covering (pruinose)." Uses: These types of lichen have been used to make a reddish-brown dye.
