Origin
Haematomma ochrophaeum (Tuck.) A. Massal., commonly known as Golden-blood lichen, is a species of lichen that belongs to the family of Haematommataceae. It is native to North America and can be found in regions such as Alaska, the west coast of the United States, and the Appalachian Mountains.
Common Names
Golden-blood lichen is widely known by its common name, but it also has other names like golden Haematomma and yellow-brown lichen.
Uses
Haematomma ochrophaeum is not known to have significant uses except as a natural aesthetic in its natural habitat. It does not have any known beneficial or harmful properties for humans or animals.
General Appearance
The Golden-blood lichen has a striking appearance due to its bright golden-yellow color, which gives it its common name. It typically has a smooth or wrinkled surface, which grows in patches ranging from 1-5 cm across. The fruiting bodies resemble small cups that are typically orange-brown to pinkish brown in color. This lichen usually grows on trees and rocks in damp, humid conditions, typically in the shade.
Light Requirements
The Haematomma ochrophaeum thrives under full or partial sunlight. It is often found growing on rocks or boulders in areas that receive plenty of sunlight. However, it also has the ability to tolerate shaded conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The preferred temperature range for the Haematomma ochrophaeum is between 20-30°C. It can also survive in temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 35°C. The plant cannot survive in extreme cold temperatures and will begin to die off if the temperature drops below 0°C.
Soil Requirements
Since Haematomma ochrophaeum grows on rocks and boulders, it does not necessarily require soil for growth. However, it does require a moist environment to grow and anchor itself to surfaces. The plant can tolerate dry conditions for short periods of time. It is usually found in areas with well-draining soils with pH between 5.5 and 7.5.
Cultivation of Haematomma ochrophaeum
Haematomma ochrophaeum is a lichenized fungus that grows on rocks and cliffs. As such, it does not require any specific cultivation methods. The easiest way to grow it is to simply collect it from its natural habitat and transplant it into a suitable container.
Watering Needs of Haematomma ochrophaeum
Unlike most plants, Haematomma ochrophaeum does not require constant watering. In fact, overwatering is one of the most common mistakes made when cultivating this lichen. The best approach is to water it sparingly and only when the substrate (such as a rock or piece of wood) is completely dry. It is also recommended to use rainwater or distilled water rather than tap water, which can contain mineral deposits that may harm the lichen.
Fertilization of Haematomma ochrophaeum
Since Haematomma ochrophaeum is not a plant, it does not require traditional fertilization methods. However, it does rely on a healthy symbiotic relationship between a fungus and algal partner. Therefore, it is important to provide a suitable substrate that can support both of these organisms. Depending on the substrate, it may be helpful to add small amounts of organic matter such as leaf litter or compost.
Pruning of Haematomma ochrophaeum
Pruning is not necessary for Haematomma ochrophaeum, as it does not have any leaves or stems that require cutting. However, it is important to monitor the lichen for any signs of damage or disease. If any parts of the lichen appear to be unhealthy, it may be necessary to remove them to prevent the spread of problems to the rest of the organism.
Propagation of Haematomma ochrophaeum
Haematomma ochrophaeum (Tuck.) A. Massal. can be propagated through several methods:
Seeds
Propagation through seeds is one of the simplest methods of reproducing the plant. Collect mature seeds in late summer and sow them in the fall. The optimal time to sow is from October to November. Individuals can also place the seeds in a moist paper towel in the fridge for a few weeks to simulate the winter period. This process is called stratification and helps to break the dormancy of the seeds.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation techniques such as stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Haematomma ochrophaeum. In this method, cut approximately 10 to 15 cm stem sections from a mature plant. Remove the lower leaves and insert the stem cuttings into moist soil. The individuals may also use hormone rooting powder to improve the success rate of the rooting process.
Division
Propagation through division involves the separation of the mother plant into smaller parts for a separate growth. This method can be suitable for the plants that have formed a clumping habit. Divide the plant when the new growth appears in spring or fall.
Disease and Pest Management for Haematomma ochrophaeum (Tuck.) A. Massal.
Haematomma ochrophaeum, commonly known as the bloody-heart lichen, is a foliose lichen that is commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant belongs to the family Teloschistaceae. Being a lichen, it is immediately resistant to many diseases and pests affecting plants, but it is not entirely immune.
Common Diseases
Lichens are typically resistant to diseases, but Haematomma ochrophaeum is prone to some diseases because of its form and growing conditions. One of the most common diseases that affect the plant is Lichenostigma elongatum. The disease depigments the area affected; it usually appears as small, pale patches that eventually widen and get contaminated with black fungal spores.
Another common disease to which Haematomma ochrophaeum is prone is lichen sclerosis or eczema. Lichen sclerosus causes small white patches to appear on the lichen and may appear as blisters or cracks. The disease affects the plant's structural and defensive capabilities and renders it vulnerable to opportunistic pathogens and predators.
Common Pests
Haematomma ochrophaeum is a lichen and is not a typical plant; hence, it has no roots, leaves, or stems, making it less susceptible to insect or pest attacks. However, it is not entirely immune to pests. Some of the most common pests that may affect the plant are mites and lice.
Lichen mites feed on the thallus cortex's hypocystis layer, which may cause disfigurement and create conducive environments for other pests and pathogens. As for lice, they feed on the algal cells present in the Haematomma ochrophaeum thallus, weakening the lichen's structural integrity and defenses.
Pest and Disease Management
There are a few things you can do to prevent and manage diseases and pests that affect Haematomma ochrophaeum. Regular cleaning of growing conditions, proper watering, and pruning are some of the essential disease prevention measures.
Insecticides cannot efficiently control mites or lice since lichen inhalation can be deadly to the plant's overall health. Hence, the best bet is prevention by keeping the plant clean, well-maintained, and free of debris.
If you notice any disease or pest infestation symptoms with your Haematomma ochrophaeum, you should consider removing the affected area immediately. This process is called pruning, and it helps control the problem from spreading to other parts of the plant.
In conclusion, Haematomma ochrophaeum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. Proper lighting, watering, and cleanliness are essential to keeping the lichen healthy and disease-free.
