reindeer moss; reindeer lichen
A type of lichen (Cladonia rangiferina) that grows in cold regions and is an important food source for reindeer.
Reindeer moss is an important food for reindeer.
Standard kanji spelling for this lichen.
Katakana spelling often used in botanical contexts.
Compound of 花 (hana, 'flower') and 苔 (koke, 'moss'), referring to the plant's appearance. The exact derivation is uncertain.