Overview:
Cyphelium tigillare (Ach.) Ach. is a small, lichenized fungus belonging to the family Tephromelataceae. It is commonly found growing on trees, rocks, and soil across temperate regions of the world. The plant features a unique thallus structure that forms an intricate pattern on the surface it inhabits.
Common names:
Cyphelium tigillare is commonly known as the "Cracked Lichen" due to the appearance of its thallus structure. It is also referred to as "Scabby Earth Lichen", "Tessellated Lichen", and "Netted Rock Tripe".
Appearance:
Cyphelium tigillare can be identified by the unique cracked or tessellated appearance of its thallus structure. Individual lobes of the thallus range from 0.5 to 4 millimeters in length and are yellowish green to gray or brown in color. The thallus lobes are tightly packed together, forming a tightly interwoven mass on the surface it inhabits. The apothecia of Cyphelium tigillare are reddish-brown and are found at the tips of the thallus. They feature an umbrella shape and can be up to 1 mm in diameter, with a margin that is often lighter in color.
Uses:
Cyphelium tigillare has been used traditionally for various medicinal purposes by indigenous cultures in Europe and North America. It has been used as an anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor agent, as well as a remedy for respiratory and digestive problems. Cyphelium tigillare also plays an important role in ecological systems as a primary producer, forming the base of the food chain that supports a diverse range of organisms.
Growth Conditions of Cyphelium tigillare (Ach.) Ach.
Cyphelium tigillare (Ach.) Ach. is a crustose lichen that grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, alpine habitats, and dry valleys. It can be found growing on rocks, boulders, and cliffs.
Light Requirements
Cyphelium tigillare (Ach.) Ach. prefers shaded or partially shaded areas with low to medium light intensity. In its natural habitat, it can be found growing under the canopies of trees or in areas where there is dappled sunlight. Direct sunlight can damage the thallus and reduce its growth rate.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Cyphelium tigillare (Ach.) Ach. growth is between 15°C to 20°C. The lichen can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C and as high as 25°C. However, excessive heat or cold can damage the thallus and reduce the growth rate of the lichen.
Soil Requirements
Cyphelium tigillare (Ach.) Ach. is not a true plant, so it does not have roots and does not require soil for growth. Instead, it obtains nutrients and moisture from the surrounding environment, including trapped atmospheric gases, dust, and rainwater. The lichen can grow on a variety of substrates, including rocks, boulders, and cliffs, as long as there is enough moisture and nutrients available.
Cultivation
Cyphelium tigillare is a lichen that grows on decaying logs, rocks, and soil in forests and woodland areas. To cultivate this plant, recreate its natural habitat by utilizing decaying wood and bark as a substrate. It is important to ensure that the logs are not completely rotten and have some bark intact, allowing the lichen to attach and develop.
It is best to harvest the logs from the woods in the fall, as the lichen has a higher chance of survival when transplanted during this season. Once you have a suitable log, drill a few holes about 3-5 cm deep. Spread the lichen fragments over the log and push them into the holes. Then, wrap the log in moistened moss and place it in a shady area, preferably out of direct sunlight.
Watering Needs
Cyphelium tigillare does not require regular watering since it obtains its moisture and nutrients from the air. However, it is essential to maintain high humidity by keeping the substrate moist but not overly wet. During periods of drought or dry weather, you can hydrate the lichen using a spray bottle. But do not drench the substrate or the plant as this may cause waterlogging and result in death.
Fertilization
Cyphelium tigillare does not require any fertilization as it gains all the necessary nutrients from the air and substrate. However, you can provide some supplementary nourishment by using organic fertilizers like fish emulsion, which contains useful micronutrients that can enhance the lichen's vitality.
Pruning
Since Cyphelium tigillare grows slowly, pruning is unnecessary. However, you can tidy up the plant by removing any dead or discolored fragments by gently brushing them off with a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush. Do not pull the plant, cut it, or use chemicals, as it may harm the lichen's growth and development.
Propagation of Cyphelium tigillare
Cyphelium tigillare (Ach.) Ach., commonly known as "scaly crust," is a lichen species that grows on the bark of trees. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through various methods.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is a method of reproducing plants asexually from plant parts such as leaves, stems, or roots. For Cyphelium tigillare, vegetative propagation can be achieved by fragmenting the thallus.
To propagate the plant using the fragmenting method, one can remove a portion of the thallus and attach it to a suitable substrate. The substrate can be moistened and placed in a cool, shady place.
Sexual Propagation
Cyphelium tigillare can also be propagated sexually. This method involves the use of spermatia and ascospores.
The spermatia and ascospores can be collected during the reproductive phase of the plant. They can be placed in a dampened substrate in a closed container and kept in a cool, shaded area. After a few weeks, the ascospores will germinate, giving rise to new thalli.
In conclusion, Cyphelium tigillare can be propagated through both vegetative and sexual methods. The choice of propagation method will depend on the available resources and the grower's preference.
Disease and Pest Management for Cyphelium Tigillare
Cyphelium tigillare (Ach.) Ach. is a type of lichen that can be found in both temperate and tropical regions. While it does not suffer from many diseases or pest infestations, some issues can occur. The following are common diseases and pests that might affect Cyphelium tigillare, and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Cyphelium tigillare is quite hardy and doesn't experience many diseases. However, it can suffer from fungal infections or rot. This typically happens when the surrounding area is damp or humid.
To prevent fungal infections or rot, it's essential to keep the surrounding environment dry. If you find evidence of fungal infection or rot, remove the infected areas immediately and dispose of them appropriately. Be sure to monitor the affected areas for additional signs of infection.
Common Pests
As mentioned earlier, Cyphelium tigillare does not experience pest infestations often. However, some pests may damage the plant, including mites and aphids. These pest infestations can cause severe damage if not caught early on.
To manage pests, you can use an insecticidal soap solution. Be sure to monitor the affected areas for an extended period to ensure that the infestation has been completely eradicated.
Conclusion
Cyphelium tigillare is a relatively hardy plant and does not suffer from many diseases or pests. However, fungal infections, rot, mites, and aphids can cause damage. With proper attention and care, you can keep your Cyphelium tigillare healthy and robust.
