Plant Guide > Mosses and Lichens > Lichens > Genus Umbilicaria > Rock Tripe Lichen

Rock Tripe Lichen

Rock Tripe, Umbilicaria vellea, (L.) Nyl.

Habit and habitat.-On rocks in high mountains.

Vegetative organs (thallus).-Large, one-leaved, leathery and somewhat smooth, ash-coloured with a bloom above; brownish to black, and hairy, below.

Fruiting organs (apothecia)-Small, appressed, orbicular and plaited, becoming convex.

Name.-From the Latin vellus, fleece, referring to the hairy nature of the under surface.