Introduction
Cyphelium caliciforme (Flotow) Zahlbr. is a species of lichenized fungi belonging to the family Caliciaceae. It grows on trees, rocks, and soil and has a unique and recognizable appearance.
Origin and Distribution
The plant is found in various parts of the world. It is most commonly found in the temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, where it grows on the bark of trees, rocks, and soil. It can also be found in some parts of Australia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Cup Lichen or Wineglass Lichen. In some parts of Europe and Asia, it is also referred to as Schalenbecherflechte.
Physical Description
The plant has a distinctive cup-shaped fruiting body, which is reddish-brown in color. The fruiting body has a flat base and a wide opening. The upper part of the cups is often covered with a layer of dark green algae. The cups can range from 1-5mm in diameter and are usually densely clustered. The thallus is pale green, blue-green. The spores and asci are curved.
Uses
Cyphelium caliciforme is not known to have any significant medicinal or culinary uses. It is mostly used for its aesthetic appeal and is often found in souvenir shops, where it is sold as a decorative item.
Conclusion
Cyphelium caliciforme is a unique and recognizable plant with a distinctive cup-shaped fruiting body. It is commonly found in temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America and is also found in some parts of Australia. Although it has no significant medicinal or culinary uses, it is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal and is often found in souvenir shops.
Light Requirements
Cyphelium caliciforme prefers moderate to low light intensity. It typically grows in habitats that receive diffused light, such as shaded areas of rocky outcrops, forests, and cliffs. Excessive light exposure can lead to desiccation and damage to the thallus.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Cyphelium caliciforme is between 10°C and 20°C. The lichen is well adapted to withstand cold temperatures and can even survive in harsh winter conditions. However, temperatures above 25°C can lead to rapid drying of the thallus and decrease in growth rate.
Soil Requirements
Cyphelium caliciforme grows on various substrates such as rocks, bark of trees, and soil. However, it particularly favors acidic to neutral soils (pH range of 4.0-7.0) that are moist but not waterlogged. The presence of organic matter in the soil is also important for the growth and development of the lichen as it provides the necessary nutrients.
Cultivation methods
Cyphelium caliciforme is a small, leafy plant that belongs to the lichen family. The plant grows well in a terrarium or a shaded spot in the garden or greenhouse. It thrives in cool, moist environments with temperatures ranging from 60-75°F. The plant can grow on soil, rocks, logs, bark, and other surfaces. To cultivate, you should collect small pieces of the plant and transfer them to a suitable growing environment.
Watering needs
Cyphelium caliciforme prefers a consistent level of moisture in its environment. Avoid drowning the plant by providing adequate drainage. You can mist the plant occasionally to increase humidity levels, but be careful not to overwater. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Cyphelium caliciforme does not require extensive fertilization because it obtains nutrients from the surrounding environment. However, you can use a water-soluble fertilizer during the growth season, which you can apply lightly to the soil or substrate weekly. Ensure you use a fertilizer suitable for epiphytic plants, as Cyphelium caliciforme grows on trees and rocks and has evolved to absorb nutrients from the surrounding environment.
Pruning
While Cyphelium caliciforme does not require extensive pruning, you may need to remove some areas that are discolored, dead, or damaged. Use sterile scissors or a scalpel to cut off the affected areas and discard them in the garden trash. It's essential to keep the plant clean by wiping it often with a damp cloth. This will prevent the buildup of dust and other pollutants that could inhibit its growth.
Propagation of Cyphelium caliciforme
Cyphelium caliciforme is a lichen species that typically propagates through asexual means. This plant can spread via vegetative reproduction or fragmentation.
Vegetative Reproduction
In vegetative reproduction, fragments or pieces of the thallus can detach from the parent lichen and develop into new individuals. The thallus, in this case, is the main body of the lichen which contains both the fungal and photosynthetic partners. The detached fragment can start growing new fungal and algae partners, thus developing new lichens. The fragmentation can occur naturally, or it can be induced artificially in the laboratory.
Fragmentation
One of the most natural methods of propagation is fragmentation. The fragmentation of thallus, due to environmental factors like rain, wind, or animal activities, can lead to the development of new lichens. The ragged edges of the fragments can allow them to attach to the substrate and start growing new lichen with the help of new fungal and algae partners.
Though sexual reproduction is rare in Cyphelium caliciforme, it can occur in certain conditions like favorable temperature and humidity. The sexual reproduction of this plant typically results in the growth of a fruiting body that contains spores. These spores then develop into new lichen individuals under favorable conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Cyphelium caliciforme
Cyphelium caliciforme, commonly known as rock-binding lichens, is a species of lichen that typically grows on rocks, tree bark, or soil. Though lichens are known to be relatively resilient, they do face certain diseases and pests that can affect their growth and overall health. Below, we discuss the common diseases and pests that might affect Cyphelium caliciforme and suggest some ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Lichens are not typically affected by disease, but they can occasionally develop necrosis, which is the death of plant tissue. This can occur due to high levels of pollution, warming temperatures, and acid rain, all of which can impact the health of Cyphelium caliciforme. Symptoms of necrosis include the browning of the lichen or any discoloration. If you notice that your lichen is displaying these symptoms, you can try the following:
- Reduce the level of pollution by choosing to use green energy or reduce the waste you create
- Encourage good air circulation in the area in which the lichen is growing
- Reduce or eliminate the use of pesticides or fertilizers in the area where the lichen is growing
Common Pests
Like diseases, pests are also not typically found in lichens, but they can occasionally be present. Below are some common pests that can potentially negatively impact the growth of Cyphelium caliciforme and ways to manage them:
- Snails and slugs - you can remove these pests by hand or use copper barriers to prevent them from reaching the plant
- Weevils - you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to eliminate these pests
- Squirrels or other rodents - you can try using netting or fencing to prevent these animals from getting to the plant
It is important to note that lichens are relatively self-sufficient and do not typically require human intervention to maintain health and growth. However, if you do notice any symptoms of disease or pests on your Cyphelium caliciforme, the above suggestions can help you manage any issues that arise.
