[2] This lichen is abundant on the High Plains of Wyoming.

[3] Its distribution covers intermountain regions of western North America, and Mexico.

[4] Tumbleweed shield lichen is used as a dye by Navajo rug weavers.

[2] It has been used as a remedy for impetigo by the Navajo.

[5] It was implicated in the poisoning of domestic sheep and cattle in Wyoming during the 1930s.