Origin and Common Names
Lecanora mutabilis (Ach.) Nyl. is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Lecanoraceae. It can be found in different parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. In North America, it grows in the northern part, particularly in Alaska, Canada, and the northeastern United States. It is commonly known as the "rare variable lichen" or "seaside mock orange lichen."
General Appearance
The thallus of Lecanora mutabilis is small and flat, measuring about 1-3 centimeters in diameter. Its surface is smooth, glossy, and yellow-orange, which may turn pink or grayish when wet. It has a thick margin that is white, and the inner portion of the thallus becomes bright yellow when exposed to ultraviolet light. The apothecia (reproductive structures) are small, with reddish-brown discs that have concave margins.
Uses
Lecanora mutabilis has not been widely used in medicine or industry. However, its close relative, Lecanora esculenta, has been historically used in Iceland as a source of food during famine. Lecanora esculenta is commonly referred to as "moss bread" and is still used in traditional Icelandic cuisine. Lecanora mutabilis and other lichens can also be used as bioindicators of air pollution.
Light Requirements:
Lecanora mutabilis requires moderate to high light levels to grow healthily. The ideal light exposure would be for the plant to be placed in a location where it can receive partial to full sunlight for several hours each day. However, direct exposure to sunlight for long durations can lead to damage and drying, so it is better to avoid intense light sources.
Temperature Requirements:
Lecanora mutabilis thrives in cooler climates and can grow in a wide temperature range. The optimal temperature for growth would be between 5°C to 20°C. However, the plant can tolerate extreme temperatures as low as -30°C and as high as 32°C but only for a limited time. During winter, the plant goes into a dormant stage, and it can withstand sub-zero temperatures without any damage.
Soil Requirements:
Since Lecanora mutabilis is a lichen, it doesn't grow in soil like other plants. Instead, it requires a substrate, typically a rock. As a lichen, Lecanora mutabilis obtains nutrients from symbiotic relationships with certain types of fungi and bacteria, and its growth is highly dependent on the substrate's quality. Suitable substrates for this plant include rocks with a slightly alkaline pH, hard rocks such as sandstone or limestone, and concrete surfaces.
Cultivation Methods for Lecanora Mutabilis
Lecanora mutabilis is a lichen that grows on rocks and trees. Although it is a naturally occurring plant, it can be cultivated in a controlled environment. To cultivate Lecanora mutabilis, you will need a substrate that matches its growing conditions. The best substrate for Lecanora mutabilis is a damp and nutrient-rich soil mixture.
You can also find pre-made lichen substrates in nurseries. Ensure that the substrate you choose suits Lecanora mutabilis' preferences. Environment conditions such as light and temperature are crucial when cultivating Lecanora mutabilis. Lichens prefer dimly lit and moist environments.
Watering Needs for Lecanora Mutabilis
Lecanora mutabilis is quite hardy and can tolerate variable conditions. However, providing it with a consistent source of moisture is necessary. Ideally, you should mist your Lecanora mutabilis with a water spray bottle daily. This method mimics its natural environment where it collects moisture from the atmosphere. Ensure that the water is high quality and free of chemicals or pollutants.
Fertilization for Lecanora Mutabilis
Lecanora mutabilis is not a regular plant and does not require any fertilization. Usually, they obtain their nutrients from the air and surrounding environment. Fertilizers contain chemicals that are harmful to lichens, and they should be avoided. Rather than using fertilizers, it is best to keep the plants in their natural habitat, as they depend on this environment to grow and thrive.
Pruning for Lecanora Mutabilis
Lecanora mutabilis doesn't need pruning as it is a lichen and does not have conventional leaves or branches. Instead, it grows in a particular structure that is unique to lichens. However, if you notice that it's growing too much, you can remove part of it and create a new spore substrate. This method helps regrow the Lecanora mutabilis and allows you to propagate new colonies from the existing plant.
Propagation of Lecanora mutabilis
Lecanora mutabilis (Ach.) Nyl., commonly known as the variable rim lichen, is a species of lichen that is found in many regions of the world. The plant is capable of propagating through different methods.
Soredia Propagation
One of the most common propagation methods for Lecanora mutabilis is through soredia. Soredia are small fragments that grow on the surface of the thallus. These fragments break off easily and transported by air, water, or animals, and develop into new plants. Soredia propagation ensures that the new plant produced is genetically identical to the parent plant.
Thallus Fragment Propagation
Propagation through thallus fragments is another method used for Lecanora mutabilis. When the thallus is broken, fragments can easily fall off, and these fragments can grow new plants. This method is beneficial when you need to quickly expand the population of the lichen.
Vegetative Propagation
Lecanora mutabilis can also propagate vegetatively. Vegetative propagation occurs when the plant forms tiny structures called isidia, which are clusters of cells that can give rise to new plants. These structures detach easily from the parent plant and can grow into a new plant. Vegetative propagation helps to maintain genetic variation within the lichen population.
Conclusion
Lecanora mutabilis is a hardy and adaptable plant that can propagate through different methods. Soredia, thallus fragments, and vegetative propagation are all useful methods used by the plant to ensure its survival and expansion.
Disease Management for Lecanora mutabilis (Ach.) Nyl.
Lecanora mutabilis, commonly known as "powdery sunburst lichen," is a durable lichen species that can survive in various environmental conditions. This lichen species isn't plagued by many diseases, but there are a few fungal diseases that may attack it.
The most common fungal diseases found in Lecanora mutabilis include:
- Phoma herbarium: A fungal plant pathogen that causes necrotic lesions in the leaves and branches of the plant.
- Caloplaca: A relatively harmless parasitic fungus that may compete for resources and reduce the health of the lichen.
To avoid the spread of these fungal diseases, ensure that the plant is kept in well-circulated air, and avoid exposing the plant to excess moisture. Regularly pruning diseased sections of the plant will also prevent the spread of the disease to healthy sections.
Pest Management for Lecanora mutabilis (Ach.) Nyl.
Lecanora mutabilis isn't commonly affected by pests, but some insects and small animals may sometimes harm the plant, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests pierce leaves, causing yellowing and dryness. They can be managed using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat through the leaves of the Lecanora mutabilis. Handpicking them or installing copper barriers can help control them.
- Deer and rabbits: These pests love to eat the foliage of the plant. Fencing the plant or applying a deer and rabbit repellent around the base of the plant should help control these animals.
When managing pests, aim to use non-toxic solutions to protect the environment. Chemicals should be avoided unless they're the only option available.
