Origin
Dermatocarpon moulinsii (Mont.) Zahlbr. is a lichen species native to Europe, including regions such as the Alps and Scandinavia.
Common names
Dermatocarpon moulinsii is commonly known as Hammered Shield Lichen or Moulins' Lichen.
Uses
In traditional medicine, Dermatocarpon moulinsii was used by the Innu people of Canada to stop the bleeding of wounds and to treat colds, coughs, and infections. Today, the lichen is mostly used as an indicator of air pollution due to its sensitivity to sulfur dioxide and other pollutants.
General appearance
Dermatocarpon moulinsii is a foliose lichen that has a distinctive hammered or ridged appearance, with the top surface appearing cracked and grayish to brownish in color. The underside of the lichen is pale or whitish in color and has small, round black spots called cephalodia. The lichen produces small, stalkless, fruiting bodies that are black and shiny.
Light requirements
Dermatocarpon moulinsii requires moderate to high light intensity to grow well. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can lead to stunted growth and reduced reproduction. In its natural habitat, this plant typically grows in open areas with minimal shading.
Temperature requirements
Dermatocarpon moulinsii generally thrives in cool to cold temperatures and can be found in areas with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C. However, it is tolerant of a wide temperature range and can survive in temperatures as low as -10°C and as high as 30°C.
Soil requirements
Dermatocarpon moulinsii prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow on a range of soil types, including gravelly or sandy soils, but it prefers soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range. In its natural habitat, it is often found growing in rocky areas or on cliffs where the soil is well-drained.
Overall, Dermatocarpon moulinsii is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growth conditions. However, providing moderate to high light intensity, cool to cold temperatures, and well-drained soils with organic matter and a slightly acidic to neutral pH range can help ensure optimal growth and reproduction.
Cultivation of Dermatocarpon moulinsii
Dermatocarpon moulinsii is a lichen that grows abundantly in arid and semi-arid regions. As a result, it is relatively easy to cultivate this plant in a garden or greenhouse setting.
The first step in cultivating Dermatocarpon moulinsii is to provide the suitable growing conditions. This plant thrives in locations with plenty of sunlight and good airflow, so position it in a sunny spot with excellent ventilation. The light should not be too intense as it may cause the plant to dry out.
The second step is to ensure that the growing medium is suitable. The plant prefers well-draining soil. Sandy soils are an excellent choice for growing Dermatocarpon moulinsii. Additionally, the soil should be slightly alkaline with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
Watering Needs
Dermatocarpon moulinsii is a drought-tolerant plant and does not need frequent watering. Therefore, be careful not to overwater this plant as it may result in root rot. Water only when the soil is dry, and do not allow water to accumulate in the soil. This plant can survive long periods of drought by going dormant until the water supply is restored.
Fertilization
Unlike other plants that require regular fertilization, Dermatocarpon moulinsii does not need much fertilization. However, you can feed the plant with a liquid fertilizer in moderation during the growing season. Too much fertilizer can cause the plant to grow too rapidly, which may reduce its hardiness and increase its vulnerability to diseases.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Dermatocarpon moulinsii. As a lichen, it does not have stems or branches, but it can detach from surfaces and require reattachment. However, it is essential to remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant as soon as possible so that they do not spread to other parts of the plant.
Propagation Methods for Dermatocarpon moulinsii
Dermatocarpon moulinsii is mostly propagated through vegetative propagation. This involves the utilization of plant parts like stem cuttings and leaves to cultivate new plants. There are two primary methods of vegetative propagation:
1. Cloning
Cloning involves the extraction of tissue from a mature Dermatocarpon moulinsii plant for the development of a genetically identical plant. The cloning tissue is grafted onto a gel or incubated on a nutrient-rich substrate where it produces roots and shoots, forming a new plant. This method of propagation is popular with cultivators because it preserves the genetic traits of the parent plant as well as their quality.
2. Cuttings
Cuttings involve the cultivation of a new Dermatocarpon moulinsii plant from a portion of a mature plant’s stem or leaf. The cuttings are then placed into a root hormone and planted into the appropriate soil mix. As the plant develops roots and matures, it is transplanted into a suitable location for it to thrive.
Disease Management for Dermatocarpon moulinsii
Dermatocarpon moulinsii is known to be a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it can still be affected by a few diseases that can cause serious harm if left untreated. Here are some of the common diseases that can affect Dermatocarpon moulinsii:
- Lichen spot disease: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that affect the lichen thallus, causing it to turn black and die off. To manage this disease, it is important to remove all infected branches or foliage as soon as they are noticed. Application of a copper-based fungicide can also help control the spread of the disease.
- Virus diseases: There are several viruses that can affect Dermatocarpon moulinsii, causing symptoms such as yellowing and stunted growth. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for viral diseases, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed immediately to prevent further spread.
Pest Management for Dermatocarpon moulinsii
Like diseases, Dermatocarpon moulinsii is also relatively resistant to pests. However, some pests can still become a problem for this plant. Here are some of the common pests that can affect Dermatocarpon moulinsii:
- Lichen moth: The lichen moth larvae feed on the lichen thallus of Dermatocarpon moulinsii, potentially causing serious damage. Physical removal of the larvae or application of an insecticide that contains Bacillus thuringiensis can help control this pest.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth in Dermatocarpon moulinsii. Application of an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can help control spider mites.
Regular inspection of the plant for diseases and pests is essential for detecting problems early on and preventing them from becoming serious. Implementing good cultural practices, such as proper watering and fertilization, can also help keep the plant healthy and resistant to diseases and pests.
