Overview
Candelariella citrina de Lesd. is a lichen that belongs to the family Candelariaceae. It is a small, crusty, yellow- to lemon-colored lichen that grows on rocks, soil, bark, and occasionally on moss. It grows up to 1-2 cm in diameter and forms irregularly shaped patches.
Origin and Common Names
Candelariella citrina de Lesd. is found worldwide except for Antarctica. It is commonly known as the lemon lichen or yellow scale lichen.
Uses
The lichen has been traditionally used as a source of dye. The yellow color of the lichen is due to the presence of a pigment called parietin, which is used in the textile industry. It has also been used to make yellow ink for manuscripts.
It has been reported that the lichen has antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The compounds present in the lichen are believed to have potential therapeutic uses. The lichen also contributes to the ecological balance of its habitat by being an indicator of environmental conditions.
Appearance
The thallus (the vegetative body of the lichen) has lobes that radiate from the center. It is a bright yellow to lemon color and has a waxy texture. The apothecia, which are the fruiting bodies of the lichen, are small and black and can be found scattered on the surface of the thallus. The lichen prefers dry and sunny habitats and is commonly found growing on rocks and soil in open spaces.
Light Requirements
Candelariella citrina de Lesd. typically grows in areas with full sun exposure. It requires ample amounts of light to photosynthesize and grow into a healthy plant. Lack of proper light conditions can result in stunted growth or even death of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers temperate to cold climates, and it can survive in subarctic and alpine regions. Optimal growth temperatures range from 5 to 20 °C, while the growth may slow down or stop in warmer temperatures. The growth rate may also be slower in areas with a shorter growing season.
Soil Requirements
Candelariella citrina de Lesd. generally grows in dry to wet rocky substrates. It prefers well-drained soils that are low in nutrients, such as those found in alpine and subalpine regions. The plant can also grow in acidic to neutral soils with a pH ranging from 4.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation:
Candelariella citrina de Lesd. is a lichen commonly found growing on rocks or bare soil in dry, sunny locations. It is an easy plant to cultivate as it does not require much maintenance.
The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is low in nutrients. Candelariella citrina de Lesd. can be grown in a pot or in the ground, as long as the soil is well-draining. The plant can be propagated by taking small pieces of the thallus and attaching them to a suitable substrate.
Watering needs:
Candelariella citrina de Lesd. is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive long periods without water. However, it is important to ensure the plant receives enough water during the growing season to encourage growth. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out before the next watering.
Fertilization:
Candelariella citrina de Lesd. does not require fertilization. In fact, applying fertilizer can harm the plant and its growth. This plant grows naturally in nutrient-poor soils, so it can thrive without any additional nutrients.
Pruning:
Pruning is not required for Candelariella citrina de Lesd. This plant grows low to the ground and does not have any woody or stem growth that needs to be pruned. However, the plant can benefit from removing any dead or damaged thalli to keep it looking neat and tidy.
Propagation of Candelariella citrina de Lesd.
Candelariella citrina de Lesd. is primarily propagated through vegetative means, usually through fragmentation. This involves breaking off a portion of the plant and allowing it to take root in suitable conditions.
Another method of propagation is through the use of spores. Spores are tiny, reproductive cells that are released by the lichen. These spores can be collected and used to grow new plants, although the process is more complex and requires specific growing conditions and equipment.
It is important to note that the propagation of Candelariella citrina de Lesd. is a delicate process that requires specific conditions for success. The plants must be grown in suitable soil with the proper pH levels and moisture content. Additionally, care must be taken during handling to avoid damaging the plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Candelariella citrina de Lesd.
Candelariella citrina de Lesd. is a hardy lichen that is resistant to most diseases and pests. However, there are a few diseases and pests that can attack it and cause damage. Understanding these potential problems and how to manage them is essential for maintaining healthy Candelariella citrina de Lesd. specimens.
Common Diseases
The most common disease that affects Candelariella citrina de Lesd. is lichen necrosis. This disease can cause discoloration, distortion, and death of the lichen thallus. The disease is caused by several factors, including air pollution, environmental stress, and bacterial or fungal infections.
Management of Lichen Necrosis
The best way to manage lichen necrosis is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. This involves providing optimal growing conditions for the lichen, including proper light exposure, temperature, moisture, and air quality. If the lichen does become infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, removing any affected areas and treating the lichen with a fungicide or bactericide may help prevent the disease from spreading.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that attack Candelariella citrina de Lesd. is the lichen moth (Eilema pygmaeolum). The larvae of this moth feed on lichen thalli, causing significant damage and even death of the lichen.
Management of Lichen Moth
The best way to manage lichen moth infestations is through biological control. This involves introducing natural predators of the moth, such as parasitic wasps or other insects, to the area. Another method is to physically remove the larvae from the lichen, either through manual removal or by using a high-pressure water spray.
By understanding the potential diseases and pests that can affect Candelariella citrina de Lesd. and implementing appropriate management strategies, you can help ensure that your specimens remain healthy and thriving for years to come.
