Iceland Moss (Cetraria islandica)

Family: Parmeliaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Cetraria islandica is a LICHEN growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

A jelly is made by boiling the whole plant. It is nutritious and medicinal. Rather bitter, it requires leaching, which can be done by changing the cooking water once or twice during the cooking process. — A jelly is made by boiling the whole plant.; It is nutritious and medicinal.; Rather bitter, it requires leaching, which can be done by changing the cooking water once or twice during the cooking process.; The dried and powdered plant can be mixed with wheat and used in making bread.

Habitat & North American Range

Damp places, usually on rocks and the bark of trees, especially conifers. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)