Star-Tipped Cup Lichen / Silver Moss (Living) - Cladonia stellaris

Add a touch of wild beauty to your plant displays with living Star-Tipped Cup Lichen (Cladonia stellaris). This slow-growing, cushion-forming lichen is known for its silvery-green, coral-like structure, creating a delicate, frosted effect in any setting. Unlike preserved Reindeer Moss, this is a living variety, making it a sustainable and dynamic choice for naturalistic displays.

Scientific Name
Cladonia stellaris (starry branching [lichen])

Synonyms: Cladina alpestris, Cenomyce stellaris, Cladonia alpestris, Cladina stellaris

Common Names
Star-Tipped Reindeer Lichen, Star-Tipped Cup Lichen, Star-Nosed Reindeer Lichen

Origin
Found in boreal and arctic regions around the North Pole, including British Columbia and Newfoundland in Canada, and Norway.

Care Instructions:

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best - sun can scorch, so keep it our of strong, direct rays.

• Water: A light mist occasionally will be enough to keep this lichen from drying out; too much moisture can easily cause it to rot.

• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity is ideal, but ensure there is some airflow so it doesn't get too damp in there.

• Soil: This lichen doesn't need soil, but will grow best on hard, dry surfaces such as decaying wood, rock, or a substrate that's very well-draining and mossy.

• Temperature: This lichen is used to extremely low temperatures, so won't be picky in winter, but take care in summer that it doesn't get too hot and crispy, and that it isn't right in the sun.

Pet Safe
Yes, this lichen hasn't been reported as toxic, but it's still best if your pet doesn't eat this, especially in large quantities.

Why You’ll Love It:

🌿 True Living Lichen – Grows and changes over time, adding organic charm to displays.

🌦 Thrives in Moist Conditions – Perfect for cool, humid setups like shaded rockeries and woodland-style planters.

🪨 Unique Texture – Its branched, cushiony structure adds depth to natural arrangements.

🌱 Low Maintenance – Requires indirect light and occasional misting to thrive.

Ways to Use Star-Tipped Cup Lichen

🌿 Open Terrariums & Dish Gardens – Adds texture and a naturalistic feel.

🌾 Mossariums & Woodland-Themed Displays – Pairs beautifully with ferns, bark, and stones.

🏡 Miniature Landscapes & Dioramas – Ideal for creating tiny, lifelike forest scenes.

🎨 Botanical Art & Craft Projects – Use in framed plant art, wreaths, or nature-inspired decorations.

🪴 Top Dressing for Potted Plants – Creates a lush, natural-looking ground cover.

🦎 Vivariums & Reptile Enclosures – Suitable for bioactive setups where humidity and ventilation are balanced.

Important Note: Not for Closed Terrariums!
This lichen is only suitable for open terrariums and well-ventilated environments. In a closed terrarium, excess moisture and stagnant air can cause it to rot. If using in a terrarium setup, ensure:

✔ Ample airflow – Open terrariums or shallow dish gardens work best.

✔ A dry resting surface – Ideal on rocks, bark, or well-draining soil.

✔ Light misting, not soaking – Overwatering can lead to decay.

Perfect For:

✔ Open Terrariums & Dish Gardens – A living alternative to preserved moss.

✔ Naturalistic Displays – Use in woodland-themed centrepieces, botanical art, or rock gardens.

✔ Eco-Friendly Decor – Sustainably harvested and long-lasting.

✔ Crafting & Model Scenery – Ideal for detailed landscapes in art, crafts, and dioramas.

🌱 Sprouts Top Tip: If using Cladonia stellaris in a display, avoid placing it in direct contact with constantly damp soil - placing it on bark, stones, or wood helps prevent excess moisture buildup.