Overview
Buellia epigaea (Pers.) Tuck. is a species of lichen in the family Caliciaceae. It is commonly known as the ground disc lichen or rock disc lichen. This lichen is native to North America and can be found in various regions ranging from the Arctic to the subtropics.
Appearance
The thallus of Buellia epigaea is thin, smooth, and circular, with a diameter of 0.5 to 3 cm. Its center is usually flat, and the edges are often curled under, giving it a disc-like shape. The surface of the thallus is grey or olive-green in color, and it often has small black spots that are the fruiting bodies (apothecia) of the lichen. When it is moist, the thallus can become slightly gelatinous.
Uses
Buellia epigaea is not known to have any significant commercial uses. However, its presence can indicate environmental conditions, such as air quality and pollution levels. It is also used as a food source by some animals, including reindeer and caribou, that feed on lichens during the winter months. Additionally, Buellia epigaea is believed to have medicinal properties and has been traditionally used in some Native American cultures as a remedy for various ailments.
Light Requirements
Buellia epigaea (Pers.) Tuck. requires moderate to bright light conditions for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but should be kept away from direct sunlight as it may lead to leaf scorching. In its natural habitat, it can be found growing on tree trunks, rocks, and soil, where it receives filtered or dappled light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers a cool and moist environment. The optimal temperature range for Buellia epigaea (Pers.) Tuck. growth is between 10 to 25°C. It is important to note that this plant can withstand freezing temperatures for short periods but extended exposure may lead to plant death. Additionally, in warmer environments, it may require more frequent watering to maintain soil moisture.
Soil Requirements
Buellia epigaea (Pers.) Tuck. prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sand, and rocky soils, but it requires good drainage to prevent waterlogging. It also prefers a slightly acidic soil pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. To ensure optimal soil quality, it is recommended to add organic matter such as compost or leaf litter to the planting area.
Cultivation Methods for Buellia Epigaea (Pers.) Tuck.
Buellia epigaea (Pers.) Tuck. is a lichen that typically grows on the bark of trees, rocks, and other hard surfaces. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right substrates for cultivating the plant. If you intend to grow Buellia epigaea in your garden or home, you can use either rocks or a tree bark for cultivation.
When cultivating on rocks, it is necessary to choose a suitable site with good sunlight exposure. Also, it is important to prepare the surface of the rock by removing any grass, twigs, or moss growing on it. You can then apply a thin layer of substrate mix on the rock surface, consisting of peat, sand, or vermiculite, before planting the lichen.
If you opt to cultivate Buellia epigaea on bark, choose a healthy tree with a quality bark. The thicker the bark, the better. You can then prepare the surface by scraping off any loose or dead bark before planting the lichen.
Watering Needs
Buellia epigaea does not require frequent watering as it can tolerate dry conditions. However, ensure that you water the lichen regularly during the first few months after planting to help it establish itself correctly.
When watering, ensure that the lichen's substrates are moist and not waterlogged. Too much water can cause the lichen to rot, leading to plant death. Conversely, too little water can cause the lichen to dry out and wither.
Fertilization
Buellia epigaea does not require fertilization since it can produce its nutrients through photosynthesis. However, if growing in poor soil conditions, you can apply some nitrogen-based fertilizers. However, in most cases, the lichen should thrive without any additional fertilization.
Pruning
As a lichen, Buellia epigaea does not require regular pruning. Instead, the lichen will naturally grow and expand on its own as long as it has the right conditions for growth. However, you may need to remove any dead or decaying plant matter in the lichen's surroundings to prevent the accumulation of debris that may degrade the lichen's health.
Propagation of Buellia epigaea (Pers.) Tuck.
Buellia epigaea is a lichenized fungus that grows on rocks and soil. It spreads through vegetative propagation and spore dispersal. Propagation of Buellia epigaea is moderately easy and can be done through several methods.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Buellia epigaea is commonly done by fragmenting the thallus (the main body of the lichen) and transferring it to a new substrate. This can be done by picking up small pieces of the thallus and placing them on a suitable surface.
This method is most effective during the lichen's active growth period, which is usually in the spring and summer months. The new substrate should have the conditions that Buellia epigaea requires to grow, including the right amount of moisture and light exposure.
Spore propagation
Spore propagation of Buellia epigaea is another method of propagation. The spores can be obtained from the fruiting bodies or apothecia. These spores can be sown into a new substrate and placed in suitable conditions for growth.
However, spore propagation of Buellia epigaea is usually a slow process and may take several years to produce a complete thallus. Thus, vegetative propagation is preferred.
Caring for young plants
Once the lichen has started growing on the new substrate, it should be watered regularly to prevent dehydration. The lichen should also be placed in an area where it can receive appropriate amounts of sunlight and is not exposed to extreme temperatures. After a few weeks, a new thallus will grow, and the lichen will establish itself on the new substrate.
Propagation of Buellia epigaea is essential for conservation efforts, as the species is vulnerable to habitat loss and other environmental factors that affect its growth.
Disease Management
Buellia epigaea (Pers.) Tuck. is generally a resilient plant and is not prone to many diseases. However, certain conditions can make it vulnerable to certain diseases. The most common among them are:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is characterized by dark, sunken lesions on leaves. Over time, the spots can enlarge and spread to twigs and branches. To manage anthracnose, ensure that the plant is not overwatered, as it thrives in moist conditions. Additionally, prune and discard affected parts, and dispose of them far away from the plant. Use a fungicide if necessary, as recommended by a specialist.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is identified by circular, brown spots on the leaves. The spots may have a yellowish halo around them. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of affected leaves, disinfect the pruning tools and do not wet the foliage when watering. Use fungicide spray on remaining foliage every 7-10 days, if necessary.
Pest Management
Buellia epigaea (Pers.) Tuck. is not a common target for pests. However, some pests may occasionally attack the plant. The most common among them are:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can stunt the growth of a plant and spread viral diseases. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash off the insects and their eggs. You can also use insecticidal soap or oil or introduce natural predators such as ladybirds and lacewings.
Mites
Mites are small and difficult to detect without a magnifying glass. They often cause yellowing, stunting, and distortion of the leaves. To manage mites, pinch off affected leaves and use a miticide spray. Introducing natural predators such as predatory mites can also be effective.
