Despite its name, it is actually lichen - Oakmoss grows primarily on the trunk and branches of Oak trees, but can also be found growing on other deciduous and coniferous trees. The ‘branches’ (what we call their thallus) of oakmoss are flat and strap-like, branching out like deer antlers. The texture of Oakmoss is rough when dry and rubbery when wet. The lichen has a complex odour, woody and sharp, whilst Oakmoss that has grown on pines has a strong turpentine odour. Because of its strong fragrant compounds, oakmoss is commercially harvested in Central Europe and its extract is highly valued in perfumery.
By River Six