Black Lichen Lava

Black Lichen Lava pairs two strong looks: jet-dark volcanic rock and soft green growth. The rock is angular, with sharp faces and the holes typical of lava. On top, moss and lichen add patches of green that make it look like it has sat in a forest for decades. It stands out against pale gravel and light walls, and it gives Japanese and woodland gardens instant age.

How lava rock forms

Lava is molten rock from a volcano that cooled and hardened. It usually has holes all through it, and its look changes with its minerals and how fast it cooled.

Black Lichen Lava cooled into angular black shapes. Over time moss and lichen took hold, which is the look you buy.

Design ideas

Use it as a focal boulder in a Japanese garden, set in raked gravel or among ferns and maples. Grouped in odd numbers, pieces look natural.

It also lines dry creek beds and pond edges. For more, see our water feature ideas. If it will sit in water, tell staff how you plan to use it.

Keeping the lichen

Lichen and moss grow slowly and like some shade and moisture. Face the green side where it gets morning sun, not the hottest afternoon light.

Do not pressure-wash or seal it. Lava is sold by weight and quoted by phone or at the yard; lava is lighter than many stones of its size, which helps with handling.

Popular uses

• Japanese garden focal stones
• Woodland and shade gardens
• Dry creek bed edges
• Pond borders
• Contrast accents in pale gravel