Overview
Candelariella aurella (Hoffm.) Zahlbr., commonly known as golden candle lichen, is a species of lichen belonging to the family Candelariaceae.
Origin
It is widely distributed in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, particularly in the Arctic, alpine, and subalpine regions. It grows on rocks, soil, and bark, usually in open, sunny areas.
Common names
The golden candle lichen is commonly known as the gold moss lichen, the gold speck lichen, or the golden shield lichen.
Uses
Although it has no significant economic value, the golden candle lichen has been used by indigenous peoples for medicinal and spiritual purposes. It has been reported to possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in treating wounds and various infections. It has also been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory illnesses and stomach problems. In addition, it has been used in spiritual practices as a protective talisman or as an offering to deities.
General appearance
The golden candle lichen has a bright yellow to golden color and forms small, flattened rosettes with wavy edges. It has a crustose thallus, meaning it is firmly attached to the substrate. The apothecia, or reproductive structures, are sunken with a distinct yellow margin. The thallus is usually less than 1 cm in diameter and can grow up to 3-4 mm in height.
Light requirements
Candelariella aurella is typically found in open sunny areas such as meadows, rock outcrops, and dry soils. Therefore, it requires moderate to high levels of light for optimal growth. Lack of adequate sunlight may lead to stunted growth and reduced reproductive output.
Temperature requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, including cool to hot conditions. However, it generally thrives in cooler environments, with optimal growth occurring at temperatures between 10 to 20°C. High temperatures above 30°C may lead to wilting and death of the plant.
Soil requirements
Candelariella aurella prefers well-draining, nutrient-poor soils with low organic matter content. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or gravelly soils. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils that can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation methods
Candelariella aurella, commonly known as gold dust lichen, is a hardy and resilient plant that thrives in various environments. However, it is primarily an epiphyte, meaning it grows on the bark or wood of other trees. If you plan on cultivating Candelariella aurella in your garden, ensure you have a mature tree where the plant can establish. The tree should have a rough bark texture, which the plant can cling to.Watering needs
Candelariella aurella is an extremely drought-tolerant plant and does not require regular watering. If you reside in a region with prolonged dry spells, you can water the plant once or twice a month. However, ensure the plant's host tree is not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can promote the growth of fungi or harm the tree's root system.Fertilization
Candelariella aurella is a self-sufficient plant that does not require fertilization. The lichen absorbs all its nutrients and water from the air and the host tree. The use of fertilizers or nutrient-rich soil may cause the growth of competing plants that can outcompete the lichen, leading to its demise.Pruning
Candelariella aurella does not require pruning or trimming. The plant grows slowly and does not require shaping or control. Moreover, the gold dust lichen is delicate, and mishandling it can harm or kill it. Instead, focus on providing the plant with ideal growth conditions such as appropriate light, airflow, and moisture to ensure its optimum growth and development.Propagation of Candelariella Aurella
Candelariella aurella (Hoffm.) Zahlbr. is a lichen species that grows and spreads through asexual and sexual reproduction. The plant primarily propagates through vegetative reproduction, which involves the fragmentation of the thallus to form new individuals.
The Thallus
The thallus can be fragmented through environmental factors such as wind, water, or animal movement. When the fragmentation occurs, the broken parts can develop new root systems and undergo a process of rehydration to grow into a new plant.
Ascomata
In sexual reproduction, Candelariella aurella produces ascomata containing asci and ascospores. The asci contain eight ascospores, which are dispersed by wind, rain, or animal movement. Upon landing on a suitable surface, the ascospores begin to germinate and form a new thallus.
Cultural Propagation
Cultural propagation techniques such as vegetative propagation can be applied to lichens such as Candelariella aurella. This involves introducing a thawed thallus into a suitable medium that mimics its natural environment. The thallus can be transferred to a suitable substrate, like a rock or a piece of bark, and grown under controlled environmental conditions to promote growth and expansion.
Propagation of Candelariella aurella can contribute to its conservation, as it can be used to create new populations, strengthen existing ones, or facilitate its establishment in new environments.
Disease Management
Candelariella aurella is relatively disease-resistant due to its ability to tolerate harsh environmental conditions. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections such as leaf spot and root rot. To manage these diseases, it is advised to practice good sanitation, removing plant debris, and using fungicides recommended by a licensed professional if needed. Preventative treatment such as regular foliar application of a biofungicide can also help reduce the likelihood of fungal infections.
Pest Management
Candelariella aurella is not commonly attacked by pests but can be affected by spider mites and aphids in certain conditions. If pests are detected, the best course of action is to apply insecticides recommended by a licensed professional. Regular pruning of affected plant parts can also help minimize pest populations.
