Mosses, Lichens and Fungi

Moss, lichens and fungus might not seem like suitable subjects for a wildflower website. Unlike the rest of the plants on the site, they are not vascular plants. Nonetheless, here are a few I’ve found.

Mosses and lichens are two vastly different types of organisms, often lumped together (as here). But lichens are more related to fungi. For information about the differences between mosses and lichens by Debra Kelly click here

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Cladonia chlorophaea
Cup Lichen
Cladoniaceae

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Polytrichum commune
Haircap Moss
Polytrichaceae

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Polytrichum strictum
Slender Haircap Moss
Polytrichaceae

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Lycoperdon perlatum
Common Puffball
Agaricaceae

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Ramaria flava
Goat’s Beard
Gomphaceae

© Tom Lebsack 2025

Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains

 I try to provide accurate, up-to-date, and relevant information, but cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of any information presented on this website. I use authoritative references to insure high standards of accuracy and review and update the information frequently.