Overview
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea (Rasanen) is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Teloschistaceae. It has vibrant yellow-orange thalli, which usually grow in flat to slightly convex rosettes. The species can be easily distinguished from other lichens due to its conspicuous apothecia, which have yellow-orange discs and black rims.
Origin
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is native to Northern and Central Europe, including Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Germany. The species is common in boreal and subarctic regions and thrives in harsh environments such as exposed rock faces, soil, and tundra.
Common Names
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is commonly known as Orange Lichen.
Uses
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is not known for having any medicinal or economic uses. However, it is widely used in scientific research as a bioindicator of environmental pollution since it is sensitive to air pollution and climate change.
General Appearance
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is a brightly colored orange lichen that forms rosette-like structures. The thalli are usually 1-3 cm wide with a smooth surface and irregularly-shaped lobes. The lobes are often dissected and overlap, creating a convex shape. The apothecia are usually arranged in a circular pattern on the thallus surface, have a diameter of 0.5-2 mm, and are yellow-orange in color with a dark black border.
Growth Conditions for Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is a species of lichen that typically grows on rocks, bark, or soil in temperate or arctic regions. Here are some of the growth conditions required for this plant:
Light Requirements
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea requires moderate to high levels of light to grow properly. In natural habitats, it can be found in areas that receive a lot of direct sunlight, such as rocky outcrops or exposed tree branches.
Temperature Conditions
This species of lichen prefers cooler temperatures, with optimal growth occurring in the range of 10-20°C (50-68°F). However, it can tolerate slightly higher or lower temperatures depending on other environmental factors such as humidity and light.
Soil and Substrate Requirements
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is a hardy species that can grow on various substrates such as rocks, bark, and soil. However, it prefers well-draining and nutrient poor substrates, such as sand, gravel, or rocky outcrops. It can also grow on habitats that are slightly acidic or alkaline with a pH range of 4 to 7.
Cultivation Methods
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is best cultivated in well-draining soil and in a place that offers bright sunlight for at least six hours a day. The plant does well in acidic soil with a pH ranging from 4.0-5.5 and thrives in zones 5-9. It is essential to plant the Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea on rocks and walls that are in direct sunlight. These surfaces and rocks can mimic its natural habitat, and the plant will thrive in that environment.
Watering Needs
The Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea does well in dry environments, and it is important never to overwater it. Water the plant once a week, preferably with a light drizzle of water to keep the soil moist. The best watering method is to use the bottom-up watering method, whereby water is poured into a container that is placed beneath the pot and left for a few minutes. The water will be absorbed from the roots up, reducing the risk of overwatering the plant.
Fertilization
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea requires minimal fertilization; therefore, it is best to avoid overfertilizing the plant. The preferred fertilization method is to use a dilute liquid fertilizer, mixed with water at half the recommended strength. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season, which is from March to October.
Pruning
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea requires minimal pruning; however, regular grooming makes the plant more attractive. Use pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant, ensuring that the cuts are clean to prevent any further damages. The best time to prune the plant is during the dormant season, which is in winter.
Propagation of Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is a slow-growing lichen that can be propagated by vegetative means.
Vegetative Propagation
The vegetative propagation of Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is achieved through fragmentation of the thallus. This can be done manually by breaking off small pieces of the lichen and transplanting them onto a new substrate. Alternatively, mechanical means such as blending or grinding the thallus can also be used to produce tiny fragments that can be used for propagation.
It is important to note that Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is a specialized lichen that requires a specific substrate in order to grow successfully. Before propagating, ensure that the new substrate matches the required characteristics of the original substrate.
Once transplanted onto the new substrate, the fragments should be kept in a humid environment and given adequate light. The ideal temperature for propagation is between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.
With time, the fragments will begin to grow and spread, forming new colonies of Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea.
Disease and Pest Management for Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea (Rasanen) Zahlbr., commonly known as yellow-rimmed lichen, is a type of lichen found in North America and Europe. Like other plants, it can be susceptible to disease and pest infestations that can weaken or kill it. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the health of Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is relatively resistant to diseases, but it can develop fungal or bacterial infections that can cause damage to the plant. One common disease is Lichenostigma elongatum, which causes black spots on the lichen's surface. To manage it, prune any infected areas and spray the lichen with a fungicide containing copper sulfate or another broad-spectrum fungicide.
Another disease that can affect Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is Phytophthora ramorum, also known as sudden oak death. This disease can cause wilting, dieback, and cankers in the plant's stem and leaves. To prevent the spread of Phytophthora ramorum, avoid pruning or physically injuring the lichen, and keep the area surrounding the plant free of dead plant material.
Pests
Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is also susceptible to infestations by various insect pests. One such pest is the lichen aphid, which feeds on the lichen's sugary exudates and can cause stunted growth, discoloration, and deformation of the lichen. To control lichen aphids, use a steady stream of water to wash off the pests, or use an insecticidal soap containing potassium salts of fatty acids.
Another pest that may affect Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea is the lichen moth. The larvae of this moth feed on the lichen, and severe infestations can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage these pests, physically remove any visible larvae and spray the lichen with a biological pest control agent containing Bacillus thuringiensis.
Overall, maintaining the health of Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea requires regular monitoring and care. By identifying and managing diseases and pest infestations, you can help promote the longevity and vitality of this valuable plant.
