Calicium subquercinum Asah - Overview
Calicium subquercinum Asah is a type of lichen species that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. It is commonly found in the Northern Hemisphere and is often found growing on the bark of Quercus species of trees.
Common Names
Calicium subquercinum Asah is commonly known as the Oak Specklebelly lichen. It is also known as Calicium quercinum.
General Appearance
Calicium subquercinum Asah has a smooth, shiny, and greenish-black upper surface, and its lower surface is pale brown. It has small, round-shaped apothecia, which are visible with the naked eye. The lichen's thallus ranges from 1 to 3 cm in size, and it is usually found in a circular or irregular shape. The texture of the thallus is slightly crusty, and it is tightly attached to its host.
Uses
Calicium subquercinum Asah is not known for any particular medicinal or culinary uses. However, its presence can indicate good air quality, as lichens are highly susceptible to air pollution. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem as it acts as a host to other species of plants and animals.
Growth Conditions of Calicium Subquercinum Asah.
Calicium subquercinum Asah. is a type of lichen that grows in various regions around the world. To grow healthy and robust, this plant requires specific growth conditions that include:
Light Requirements
Calicium subquercinum Asah. often thrives in partially shaded areas with adequate lighting. The plant requires minimal direct sunlight as excessive exposure may cause damage to its thallus. Partial to full shade provides the ideal lighting conditions for Calicium subquercinum Asah. growth.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature range for the growth of Calicium subquercinum Asah. is broad. It's known to withstand a wide range of temperatures, including cold and harsh conditions. Depending on the geographic location, the plant may experience seasonal temperature variations. However, the optimal temperature range for Calicium subquercinum Asah. growth is between 50 to 65°F (10 to 18°C).
Soil Requirements
Calicium subquercinum Asah. is a lichen plant that grows on bark, rocks, and soil surfaces. The plant doesn't have roots, but it latches onto the surface on which it grows. The soil for this plant should be slightly acidic, rich in organic matter, well-draining, and moist.
Thus, providing suitable growth conditions for Calicium subquercinum Asah. is necessary to ensure the plant thrives well. The plant requires partial to full shade, optimal temperature of between 50 to 65°F (10 to 18°C), and slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter.
Cultivation methods for Calicium subquercinum Asah.
Calicium subquercinum Asah. grows best in moderately shaded areas that get indirect sunlight. It is best to keep the plant in an area where the temperature remains between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The plant can be grown in soil that is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5.
The plant can be propagated through cuttings of its stem or through the division of its root ball.
Watering needs for Calicium subquercinum Asah.
Calicium subquercinum Asah. needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. However, water must not be allowed to accumulate in the soil, as it can lead to root rot.
The plant should be watered slowly and deeply, allowing the water to penetrate the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches. It is best to water the plant early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid water evaporation.
Fertilization of Calicium subquercinum Asah.
The plant can be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once a month in the growing season, i.e., from early spring to the end of summer.
Organic fertilizers like compost or well-rotted manure can also be used to fertilize the plant.
Pruning of Calicium subquercinum Asah.
Calicium subquercinum Asah. does not require frequent pruning. However, if the plant has dead or diseased branches, they must be removed immediately to prevent the spread of the disease to the other parts of the plant.
If the plant is overgrown, it can be pruned in late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.
Propagation of Calicium subquercinum Asah.
Calicium subquercinum Asah. can be propagated by both sexual and asexual methods. The plant belongs to the Ascomycota phylum, and it reproduces through the formation of spores. The spores can be collected either from the cap or from the fruiting body of the plant.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Calicium subquercinum Asah. can be done by division, fragmentation, or by taking cuttings. Division involves physically dividing the plant into smaller sections, while fragmentation involves breaking the plant into smaller pieces. Both these methods require some experience and skill to perform successfully.
Taking cuttings is a much easier method of asexual propagation for Calicium subquercinum Asah. Take a cutting of the plant, making sure to include some of the stem or roots. Dip the cutting into rooting hormone, and plant it into a pot of moist soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and after some time, the cutting should take root and begin to grow.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation of Calicium subquercinum Asah. involves collecting spores from the plant and sowing them into a suitable growing medium. The spores can be collected from the fruiting body of the plant using a sterile instrument. Once collected, the spores can be sowed into a pot of sterilized soil, usually a mix of peat moss and coarse sand. The pot should be kept in a cool place with high humidity until the spores have germinated.
Once the spores have germinated, tiny mushroom-like structures will begin to form. These will develop into mature plants over time, but the process is slow and can take several months or even years. Additionally, the seedlings are very delicate and require careful attention to ensure their survival.
Disease and Pest Management for Calicium subquercinum Asah.
Calicium subquercinum Asah., commonly known as the Oak Woodcup fungus, is a plant that is susceptible to several diseases and pests. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spots
The plant may be prone to fungal leaf spots that can cause damage to the leaves. To manage this, it is advisable to prune off diseased leaves and avoid watering the plant overhead. You can also apply fungicide to help control the fungus.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is another common fungal disease that can affect the plant. It can be caused by high humidity, poor air circulation, and moist soil. To manage this, you can apply fungicide, ensure proper spacing between the plants, and avoid watering the leaves of the plant. Proper pruning to improve air circulation can also help manage powdery mildew.
Root Rot
Root rot is another common issue that affects Calicium subquercinum Asah. The plant can develop root rot due to waterlogged soil, poor drainage, and fungal infections. To manage this, ensure the soil is well-draining, avoid over-watering the plant, and treat the plant with fungicide if the cause is fungal infection.
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that can affect Calicium subquercinum Asah. The insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth, distorted leaves, and yellowing. To manage this, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil to control the aphids. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs to help control aphids.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To manage this, you can introduce natural predators like predatory mites and ladybugs to control the spider mites. You can also use insecticidal soap to control the pests.
By following the tips above and being vigilant about inspecting the plant regularly, you can help manage diseases and pests that may affect Calicium subquercinum Asah, allowing it to grow and thrive.
