Overview
Graphis desquamescens (Fee) Zahlbr. is a species of epiphytic lichen in the family Graphidaceae. It is commonly known as the "cracked graphite lichen" due to its characteristic cracked or fissured thallus. This species is native to tropical areas of the Americas.
Appearance
The thallus of Graphis desquamescens is grey-green to brown in color, with numerous cracks and fissures that give it a distinctive appearance. The thallus can grow up to 3 cm in diameter, and is usually circular or irregularly shaped. The apothecia of Graphis desquamescens are black, disc-shaped structures that are scattered across the surface of the thallus.
Uses
Graphis desquamescens is not known to have any medicinal or culinary uses. However, it is sometimes used by scientists and naturalists as an indicator species in studies of tropical forest ecology. This species has also been found to accumulate heavy metals, making it a potential indicator of environmental pollution in urban areas.
Light Requirements:
Graphis desquamescens usually grow in shady areas in forests or near water. Although it can tolerate some sunlight, it prefers to grow in more dimly lit spaces. Direct sunlight can damage its epiphytic and lichen growths, so it prefers shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements:
Graphis desquamescens is a tropical forest plant and prefers temperatures between 22°C and 28°C. It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and can die if exposed to freezing temperatures. It also needs consistent moisture in the air, and this is hard to maintain in arid areas. Humidity provides much of its water needs, so it depends on consistent moisture levels provided by the surrounding environment.
Soil Requirements:
Graphis desquamescens is a species of fungi that grows on barks, rocks, and mossy substrates. It is a terrestrial epiphyte and an important lichenized fungus. However, it does not rely on soil for growth and can survive in habitats that have non-nutritive substrates. It is critical to note that it depends on specific environmental conditions, and therefore, its surrounding environment is more important to its growth than the soil it is situated in.
Cultivation methods
Graphis desquamescens is a lichen and does not require traditional cultivation methods. However, it thrives in humid environments with stable moderate temperatures. Therefore, planting it in areas with similar conditions will help it grow. The lichen can be propagated by using a small piece of it to start a new colony. The piece is laid on a similar substrate as the original and left to settle in its new environment. Ensure that the substrate is moist, and there is no direct sunlight for the lichen to colonize correctly.
Watering needs
Since Graphis desquamescens is a lichen, there is no need for watering. The lichen can obtain its moisture requirement from the surrounding air, and there is no need to water it to prevent drying. However, if the area experiences prolonged dry spells, misting the area where the lichen is should provide enough moisture to prevent drying.
Fertilization
Lichen usually derives their nutrients from the air and the trees they grow on and do not require fertilization. Therefore, there is no need to add any fertilizers to the plant. However, if for any reason you want to provide additional nutrients to the lichen, use a foliar fertilizer after diluting it to a tenth of the recommended strength. Overfeeding with nitrogen will cause the lichen to loosen its hold on the substrate, and it may fall off.
Pruning
Graphis desquamescens is a slow-growing lichen, and there is no need for pruning. However, if it starts to overgrow and take the area designated for other plants, plucking a small portion of the lichen off from the edges should help create room for other plants. Avoid disturbing the edges, as they are critical to the growth and colonization of the lichen, and peeling them off will cause the lichen to die.
Propagation of Graphis desquamescens:
Graphis desquamescens (Fee) Zahlbr. is a lichenized fungus that predominantly grows on the bark of trees. It is found in tropical regions of the world and is commonly used in traditional medicine. The plant can be propagated through two primary methods:
Vegetative propagation:
Graphis desquamescens can be propagated vegetatively through the use of its thallus. The thallus is the vegetative body of the lichen that comprises both the fungal partner and the photosynthetic partner. To propagate through this method, one can simply break off a piece of the thallus and attach it to a suitable substrate, such as a tree branch or a piece of bark. The thallus will then grow into a new plant.
Propagation through spores:
Graphis desquamescens can also be propagated through spores. Spores are typically produced from a specialized structure called an apothecium. The apothecium is a fruiting body of the lichen that produces spores. To propagate through this method, one can collect the apothecia from an existing plant and scatter the spores onto a suitable substrate. The spores will then germinate and grow into new plants if the conditions are suitable.
Disease Management
Graphis desquamescens is generally a healthy and hardy plant, but it is susceptible to fungal infections. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots, blackening, and defoliation. To manage anthracnose, prune infected leaves and branches and dispose of them properly. Apply a fungicide that contains copper or a biological control agent to prevent further spread of the disease.
Septoria Leaf Spot
Septoria leaf spot is characterized by the yellowing of leaves and the presence of small, black spots. To manage Septoria leaf spot, prune diseased leaves and branches and dispose of them properly. Use a fungicide containing chlorothalonil or captan to prevent the spread of the disease.
Sudden Oak Death
Sudden Oak Death is a disease caused by a water mold that affects many plant species, including Graphis desquamescens. It causes leaves to turn brown and twig and branch dieback. To manage Sudden Oak Death, remove and destroy infected plants, increase ventilation and sunlight, and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Graphis desquamescens is generally not attractive to pests, but it can still be affected by some insects and mites. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the plant and cause discoloration, defoliation, and webbing. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a strong spray of water, apply an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, wingless insects that attach themselves to leaves and stems and suck sap from the plant. They can cause yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop. To manage scale insects, scrape them off with a fingernail or a soft-bristled brush, apply an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
