Overview
Lecanora pallida (Schreber) Rabenh. var. rubescens Imshaug & Brodo is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Lecanoraceae. It commonly grows in the subalpine forests and alpine tundra habitats of North America.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Pale Waxy Lichen or Rosy-tinted Map Lichen, owing to its light-colored and waxy appearance, and the rosy tint it develops in the fruiting stage.
Appearance
Lecanora pallida var. rubescens is a foliose lichen that forms circular or irregular-shaped colonies up to 10 cm in diameter. The thallus is composed of a thin and smooth upper surface that is pale gray to greenish-yellow in color, and a light-brown lower surface that is attached to the substrate via rhizines. In the fruiting stage, it develops reddish-brown apothecia that are up to 2.5 mm in diameter.
Uses
Lecanora pallida var. rubescens was used by Native American communities for various medicinal purposes, such as treating wounds, sore throats, and coughs. However, it is not commonly used for medicinal purposes nowadays. It does not have any known food or commercial uses, and its primary significance lies in its ecological role as an important component of ecosystems in which it occurs.
Typical Growth Conditions of Lecanora Pallida var. Rubescens
Lecanora pallida var. rubescens is a lichen species that is typically found growing on rocks and bark of trees. It is commonly found in areas with a Mediterranean climate, such as California and Oregon. Understanding the typical growth conditions for this lichen species is important for cultivating it in a controlled environment or for maintaining it in the wild.
Light Requirements
Lecanora pallida var. rubescens thrives in moderate to bright light. However, direct sunlight can be detrimental to its growth and survival. In the wild, it is often found growing on north-facing surfaces or in the shade of trees or rocks. If cultivating this lichen species, it is recommended to provide filtered or indirect light to mimic its natural environment.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Lecanora pallida var. rubescens growth is between 10°C to 25°C. It can tolerate occasional freezes in the winter months, but extended periods of extreme cold can be harmful to the lichen. In hotter and drier conditions, the lichen tends to become dormant, surviving on its stored reserves. When the temperature and moisture conditions become favorable again, it will continue growing.
Soil Requirements
Lecanora pallida var. rubescens grows on rocky substrates with alkaline soil, typically in areas with low levels of available nutrients. The lichen is sensitive to pollution and can be found in clean air environments. When cultivating this lichen, a substrate consisting of alkaline soil and rocks will promote optimal growth. Avoid using fertilizers or chemicals on the substrate as they can harm the lichen.
Cultivation Methods
Lecanora pallida var. rubescens is a lichen species that grows symbiotically with fungi. Therefore, it cannot be cultivated in the traditional sense of growing plants. However, it can be collected from its natural habitat and transplanted onto suitable substrates where it can continue to grow under controlled conditions.
Watering Needs
As a lichen species, Lecanora pallida var. rubescens does not have roots and does not require regular watering like conventional plants. However, it does need to be kept moist to avoid drying out since it relies on moisture in the air to survive. Mist the lichen with distilled water once every few weeks to keep it hydrated.
Fertilization
Lichens obtain nutrients from the environment through photosynthesis and absorption. They do not require any additional fertilizers or nutrients. Avoid using any chemical fertilizers or sprays that may harm the lichen or its fungal partner.
Pruning
Lichen species do not require pruning as they grow very slowly, and their growth rate is dependent on external conditions such as humidity and temperature. Some species may be sensitive to disturbance, so avoid touching or moving the lichen from its position once it has been transplanted onto a suitable substrate. It is essential to keep the lichen free from any debris, such as fallen leaves or twigs, which may impede its growth or block sunlight from reaching it.
Propagation of Lecanora pallida (Schreber) Rabenh. var. rubescens Imshaug & Brodo
Lecanora pallida (Schreber) Rabenh. var. rubescens Imshaug & Brodo can be propagated through vegetative or asexual methods. These methods help maintain the genetic characters of the parent plant.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Lecanora pallida (Schreber) Rabenh. var. rubescens Imshaug & Brodo can be done by division of the thallus. The thallus can be divided into several fragments and each fragment can be planted separately. The fragments should be kept moist during the planting process, and the best time for this type of propagation is in the spring.
Asexual propagation
Asexual propagation of Lecanora pallida (Schreber) Rabenh. var. rubescens Imshaug & Brodo can be done by using soredia. Soredia are small, powdery, reproductive structures that are produced on the thallus. These structures can be sprinkled on a suitable substrate and kept in a moist environment. Soredia can also be collected from the thallus and stored in a cool, dry place until required. When required, the soredia can be sprinkled on a suitable substrate and grown under suitable conditions. This type of propagation helps produce a large number of identical plants in a short period of time.
Disease and Pest Management for Lecanora pallida var. rubescens
Lecanora pallida var. rubescens is generally a hardy plant that is not susceptible to many diseases. However, in some cases, it may be attacked by fungal pathogens and pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Lecanora pallida var. rubescens and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Infection: L. pallida var. rubescens can be affected by fungal infections, particularly during periods of high humidity and warmth. Symptoms of fungal infection include discolored spots on the surface of leaves, rotting of the stem, and wilting of the plant. To reduce the risk of fungal infection, remove any dead leaves or plant debris around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can be used to control the spread of fungal infections.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can cause significant damage to L. pallida var. rubescens. They feed on the sap of the plant, which can cause stunted growth, discolored leaves, and wilting. To control aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Alternately, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to control aphid populations.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that are difficult to detect with the naked eye. They feed on the underside of leaves, sucking out the chlorophyll and causing yellow or bronze spots on the leaves. Severe infestation can cause the plant to lose leaves and prematurely die. To control spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil and increase humidity around the plant by misting the leaves regularly.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, moth-like insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They cause yellowing and wilting of leaves and reduce the overall vitality of the plant. To control whiteflies, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You may also introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps or ladybugs to control whitefly populations.
