Candleflame Lichen

Candleflame lichen growing beside Common Greenshield, Powdery Shield, and Mealy Shadow on elm bark

Candleflame Lichen in the Company of a Shadow

Candelaria concolor

Candleflame is a small but intensely colored yellow lichen that appears as soft, powdery patches on bark. Its fine lobules and abundant soredia give it a glowing, flame-like presence that stands out even at very small scales.

Candleflame frequently grows alongside other small foliose lichens, where its intense yellow pigment and dusted surface distinguish it from larger sunbursts and greenshields. Its minute size and delicate structure make it easy to overlook, yet striking once noticed—especially during winter or damp conditions when color saturation increases.

For identification details and comparison with similar species, see Candelaria concolor in the Field Notes section.

Candleflame lichen growing beside Common Greenshield, Powdery Shield, and Mealy Shadow on elm bark

Candleflame Lichen in the Company of a Shadow
Bright lobes set against green and pale blue in a tightly woven bark hollow.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Lens: EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM
Settings: ISO 200 * Aperture f/13 * Shutter 5 s
E22A2623 • Size: 2208 x 1472