Ramalina farinacea is an epiphytic bushy shaped (fruticose) lichen common to areas with Mediterranean, subtropical, or temperate climates.

[1] The coexistence of two different species of the Trebouxia genus of green algae at the same time were found to be in each specimen collected in widely distributed populations.

It is thought this demonstrates an ability of the lichen with two simultaneous green algae partners to proliferate in a wider range of habitats and geographic areas.

[1] This lichen species is characterized by its long, narrow branches (less than 2 to 3 millimeters wide) and clearly defined marginal soralia.

It is most often found at low elevations on trees and shrubs.