Overview:
Buellia schaereri De Not. is a species of lichen from the family Caliciaceae. It is a crustose lichen that grows on rocks, particularly in calcareous areas. The species was named after Swiss botanist, Heinrich Schaerer.
Common Names:
Buellia schaereri De Not. is commonly referred to as Schaerer's Buellia.
Appearance:
Schaerer's Buellia has a grayish-green to brownish-black thallus that is crustose and smooth. The lichen can grow up to five centimeters in diameter and is often found growing in concentric circles. The apothecia - the cup-like structures - are convex and can measure up to 2.5 millimeters in diameter. The spores of Buellia schaereri De Not. are colorless and measure on average from 11 to 15 micrometers in diameter.
Uses:
There are no known particular uses of Buellia schaereri De Not. It is mainly admired for its natural beauty and ecological significance, as it is a bioindicator of air quality. It is also an essential component of the natural habitat and plays a vital role in the ecosystem.
Origin:
Buellia schaereri De Not. is native to Western Europe, where it is most commonly found in countries such as France, Switzerland, and Italy. It can also be found in other parts of the world with similar climatic conditions such as Asia, Africa, Australia, and North America.
Light Requirements
Buellia schaereri De Not. typically thrives in areas that receive partial to full sunlight. The plant can grow in areas that receive partial shade but may not produce as many flowers. It is important to protect the plant from prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight or extremely high temperatures.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Buellia schaereri De Not. is between 15°C and 25°C. The plant can withstand slightly lower or higher temperatures, but growth may be slower. In areas with high humidity, the plant may be susceptible to fungal infections.
Soil Requirements
Buellia schaereri De Not. prefers well-draining soils rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic or alkaline soils, but too much acidity or alkalinity can negatively affect growth. It is important to maintain appropriate levels of moisture in the soil to prevent the plant from drying out.
Cultivation Method for Buellia schaereri De Not.
The plant is perfect for cultivation in rocky terrain. As a result, plant it in soil that is rocky and well-drained. It likes dry conditions, so it is usual to keep it outside and leave it to grow on its own. It can also thrive on rocks, stones, or walls, making it ideal for rock garden enthusiasts.
Watering Needs
Buellia schaereri may thrive in direct sunlight, making it very prone to dehydration. Accordingly, they require regular irrigation sessions, ideally twice a week, although it is wise to adjust watering depending on the temperature, humidity, and the period of the year. Make sure the soil isn't too damp or too arid since this could affect the plant's growth.
Fertilization
Buellia schaereri De Not. does not require frequent fertilization. However, adding some high-quality fertilizer twice a year, once during spring and the other during the start of autumn, can enhance growth and development.
Pruning
Pruning Buellia schaereri De Not. may not be necessary. However, if it has gone out of shape or you want to eradicate any dead or diseased growth, you may prune it. It is wise to use sterilized equipment to avoid spreading diseases. Additionally, pruning should happen when the plant is in a dormant state to avoid damaging new growth for the following season.
Propagation of Buellia schaereri De Not.
Buellia schaereri De Not. is a lichen species that grows primarily on rocks or the bark of trees. It is a slow-growing lichen, and propagation is a challenging process. The plant's multiplication occurs through vegetative propagation. Vegetative propagation essentially means that the plant reproduces asexually, which requires no fertilization. In simpler words, a new plant develops using the parent plant's vegetative structures.
Propagation Methods
Buellia schaereri De Not. can be propagated through several methods:
Thallus Fragmentation
Thallus fragmentation is one of the easiest and most common methods to propagate Buellia schaereri De Not. Thallus fragmentation involves breaking the thallus of the primary plant into small pieces and planting them in moist soil. Within a few weeks, the fragments will develop into new plants.
Propagation through Isidia
Isidia are small, finger-like structures that grow on the thallus's surface. When these structures become detached from the main plant body, they can generate new plants. The isidia can be removed from the plant and placed in moist soil or a suitable growing medium for propagation.
Propagation through Soredia
Soredia are powdery granules that develop on the lichen's surface. Soredia contain both algae and fungal cells and asexual reproduction is possible through them. When these granules reach a suitable growth medium, they can develop into new plants.
Propagation of Buellia schaereri De Not. through any of these methods requires the maintenance of a humid environment and the availability of appropriate growth media. It is critical to take care of the growing conditions of the parent plant and the new plants to ensure healthy growth and propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Buellia schaereri De Not.
Buellia schaereri De Not., commonly known as Schaerer's rock-lichen, is a species of lichen found on rocks and stones. Like any other plant, it is also prone to several diseases and pests. Some of the common diseases and pests that affect Buellia schaereri De Not. are:
Diseases
1. Lichen spot disease: Lichen spot disease is caused by fungal pathogens that invade the lichen thalli leading to brown spots on the surface. These spots can grow in size and affect the growth and development of the plant. The best way to manage this disease is by removing the infected parts of the plant and keeping it in a dry and well-ventilated area, away from other susceptible plants.
2. Lichen canker: Lichen canker is caused by a bacterial pathogen that can infect the lichen thalli and lead to the formation of cankers. These cankers can affect the overall health of the plant and may also result in death. The best way to manage this disease is by pruning the infected parts of the plant and applying a fungicide or bactericide to prevent further spread.
Pests
1. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can infest Buellia schaereri De Not. and cause damage by piercing the plant cells and sucking out the sap. This can lead to discoloration and leaf drop. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a pesticide or insecticidal soap. Regularly wiping down the plant with a damp cloth can also help keep spider mites at bay.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that can infest the plant and cause damage by sucking out the sap. They also secrete a sticky substance called honeydew which attracts ants and can lead to the growth of black sooty mold. To control mealybugs, prune the infected parts of the plant and use a pesticide or insecticidal soap to eliminate the pests.
Regularly checking the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation is crucial to prevent any further spread. Proper sanitation and hygiene practices such as cleaning tools and equipment after each use and disposing of infected plant material can also help in disease and pest management.
