Buelliopsis papillata (Sommerf.) Fink
Buelliopsis papillata is a plant species within the family of lichen-forming fungi discovered by Sommerfelt in 1826. It is commonly known as the "Felt Pelt Lichen" or the "Frosty Lichen" due to its appearance. The plant is found across Europe, Asia, North America and Africa, where it typically grows in the humid, shaded forests on the bark of deciduous trees such as oak, birch, and maple.
Appearance
Buelliopsis papillata is a modest-sized, foliose lichen that is pale green, gray, or whitish in color. Its body is leaf-like, flattened, and lobed, consisting of several thin layers attached to the host surface and measuring 2-10cm across. Its edges are wavy and often bear small lobes or marginal cilia. The undersurface of the lobes is most often covered in tiny bumps or papillae, which give it its distinctive "Frosty" appearance. The plant's coloration and shape are adapted for camouflage against the host bark.
Uses
Buelliopsis papillata is used as a bioindicator of air pollution, particularly nitrogen pollution. The presence of the lichen is an indicator of good air quality since it is highly susceptible to nitrogen pollution. In addition, the plant has been used for medicinal purposes, with several studies demonstrating its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. However, it is not widely used for these purposes due to a lack of research and standardization.
Light Requirements
Buelliopsis papillata prefers to grow in partially shaded areas. It can tolerate some amount of sunlight, but direct exposure to the sun can lead to leaf scorching and damage to the plant. Therefore, it is usually found growing in the understory of forests or in shaded areas of rocky outcrops.
Temperature Requirements
This plant has adapted to grow in a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers warmer temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F). It can still survive in colder temperatures, but growth can slow down significantly.
Soil Requirements
Buelliopsis papillata prefers well-draining soils that are moist and rich in organic matter. It can grow well in rocky soils that are well-drained. The growth rate can be improved by regularly adding compost or other organic matter to the soil. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 5.5 to 6.5.
Cultivation Methods
Buelliopsis papillata, also known as the papillose buellia, is a lichenized fungi plant species. It is a small, crustose, and leafy lichen that commonly grows on bark, hardwood, and rocks. To cultivate papillose buellia, start by selecting a suitable location with plenty of sunlight and adequate air circulation. The lichen grows well in cool, moist, and humid environments. If you plan to grow the plant indoors, ensure that the room temperature remains between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering the papillose buellia plant, less is always more. The lichen does not require much water to grow and thrive. In fact, too much moisture can damage and kill the plant. Therefore, only water the plant when the soil is completely dry. Use a spray bottle to mist the lichen lightly. Avoid pouring water directly onto the plant, as this can damage the fragile thallus structure.
Fertilization
Buelliopsis papillata is a self-sufficient plant species that does not require any fertilization. The plant uses photosynthesis to generate its food and absorb nutrients from the atmospheric air, rainwater, and debris. Therefore, avoid adding any fertilizers, composts, or chemicals to the soil or thallus. These materials can harm the delicate lichen and inhibit its growth and development.
Pruning
Unlike most other plants, papillose buellia does not require pruning. The plant has a unique structure and growth pattern that is dependent on its environmental conditions. Attempting to trim or shape the lichen can damage its thallus structure and inhibit growth. Therefore, allow the plant to grow naturally, and only remove any debris or dead organic matter that accumulates on its surface. This will ensure that the plant maintains its health and vitality.
Propagation of Buelliopsis papillata
Buelliopsis papillata can be propagated both by seeds and through vegetative methods. It is important to note that the germination of Buelliopsis papillata seeds can be difficult, and it is recommended to use fresh seeds or seeds that have been stored properly to increase germination rates.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Buelliopsis papillata can be harvested from mature fruits. Once collected, the seeds should be cleaned and surface sterilized to prevent fungal infections. Pre-germination treatments may be needed to improve the germination rate, including soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours or slightly scarifying the seed coat.
After pre-treatment, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining mix, lightly covered and maintained at a temperature of around 20-25°C with high humidity. Germination can take several weeks to several months, and seedlings may be slow-growing.
Propagation by vegetative methods
Buelliopsis papillata can also be propagated through vegetative methods, including stem cuttings, division of clumps, and tissue culture. Stem cuttings can be taken during the growing season and rooted in a well-draining mix with high humidity. Division of clumps can be done during the plant's dormant period, and small plantlets can be separated and rooted. Tissue culture is a more advanced method and involves the growth of plant tissue in a laboratory setting, which can be used to produce a large number of plants in a short amount of time.
Disease Management
Buelliopsis papillata is typically a hardy plant that is resistant to many common plant diseases. However, it can still be susceptible to some fungal infections such as leaf spots and rusts. The best way to prevent these diseases from affecting your plant is to avoid overwatering, increase air circulation around the plant, and remove any infected leaves or branches as soon as they appear. Additionally, applying a fungicide to the plant can also help prevent fungal infections.
Pest Management
The main pests that can affect Buelliopsis papillata are scale insects and spider mites. Scale insects can be controlled by removing them by hand or using insecticidal soap. Spider mites, on the other hand, can be controlled by increasing humidity around the plant and using a forceful stream of water to dislodge them from the leaves. Additionally, predatory mites can also be introduced to the plant to help control spider mite populations.
