Plant Description
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. is a type of lichen that belongs to the family of Lecideaceae. The thallus is crustose and foliose, measuring up to 3 cm in diameter. The upper surface is greenish-grey when moist and has small, scattered, and rounded lobes.
Origin and Distribution
L. subauriculata is commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia, specifically in moderate to high elevations. The lichen primarily grows on rocks in damp environments, usually alongside mosses.
Common Names
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. is commonly known as Green-Eared Pixie Cup, Rock Greenshield Lichen, Gray Shield Lichen, and Purple-edged Lecidea.
Uses
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. is known to have medicinal properties as it contains the compounds usnic acid and atranorin. These compounds have been studied for their potential to treat ailments such as tuberculosis, skin infections, and even some forms of cancer. Additionally, the lichen is an important food source for reindeer in Arctic regions.
Growth Conditions for Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd.
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. is a species of lichen that grows on rocks and soil in various habitats. To ensure optimal growth and development, specific conditions are required.
Light Requirements
Lichens such as L. subauriculata de Lesd. require moderate to high light intensity for photosynthesis. In natural habitats, they can be found growing on rocks and soil surfaces that receive direct or indirect sunlight. In artificial environments, providing fluorescent or LED grow lights that mimic natural light can support its growth.
Temperature Requirements
L. subauriculata de Lesd. has a wide temperature tolerance and can grow in a variety of conditions. However, it prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, and growth is generally slow below 5°C. The optimal temperature for its growth is between 20°C and 25°C.
Soil Requirements
Lichens are known to grow in nutrient-deficient environments and rely on photobionts for carbon fixation. L. subauriculata de Lesd. grows on acidic rocks and soil, and it can tolerate low nutrient levels and dry conditions. The soil pH can range from 3 to 7, but it grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5 to 7).
The presence of other lichen species or mosses can also affect the growth of L. subauriculata de Lesd. Some lichen species are known to release chemicals that inhibit the growth of other species. Therefore, providing a suitable habitat for L. subauriculata de Lesd. without competition from other species is essential.
Cultivation Methods
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. is a hardy plant that can be easily grown in both indoor and outdoor environments. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and it should be placed in a location that receives adequate sunlight but is also shaded from intense heat and direct sun during the hottest part of the day. The plant can be propagated by seed or division, and it is best to transplant it in the early spring or fall when the weather is mild.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. will vary depending on the season and the environment. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and the plant should never be allowed to dry out completely. In general, the plant will require more frequent watering during the summer months and less during the winter when it is dormant. Regular watering will help to prevent the plant from becoming stressed and may promote healthy growth.
Fertilization
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. does not require frequent fertilization but will benefit from occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer. It is best to fertilize the plant in the spring or early summer before the growing season begins. An organic fertilizer can be used, and it should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fertilizing the plant too frequently or using too much fertilizer can damage the plant and may inhibit growth.
Pruning
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. does not require frequent pruning, but it may benefit from occasional shaping to encourage healthy growth and maintain a desirable shape. Any dead, damaged, or diseased branches or leaves should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease and promote healthy growth. Pruning can be done in the early spring or fall when the weather is mild, and it is best to use sharp, clean tools to prevent damage to the plant.
Propagation of Lecidea Subauriculata de Lesd.
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd., is a lichen species that can be propagated through various means. Propagation can be done vegetatively, sexually, or asexually.
Vegetative Propagation
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. can be propagated vegetatively by fragmenting thallus. This can be done by breaking off small pieces of thallus and placing them on a suitable substrate. The substrate should be moist and must contain the necessary nutrients to support growth.
Sexual Propagation
Propagation through sexual means involves the production of spores. Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. produces spores which germinate to form new individuals. The spores are tiny, and they are dispersed by the wind. For successful propagation through sexual means, the spores must land on a suitable substrate and experience the right environmental conditions for germination to occur.
Asexual Propagation
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. can also be propagated asexually through the production of isidia. Isidia are small outgrowths on the thallus, and they function as propagules. They can be broken off and placed on a suitable substrate for growth to occur. Isidia propagation is faster than sexual propagation because it does not involve any complex reproductive processes.
Disease Management for Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd.
Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd. is a lichenized fungus. Being a lichen, it easily adapts to adverse environmental conditions such as drought and disease pressure. But, even this fungus is susceptible to some diseases and can be attacked by pests from time to time. Below are some common diseases and their management strategies:
- Lichen Physiology Disorders: Lichen Physiology Disorders (LPDs) include lichen declines, bleaching, and fragmentation. They occur due to various abiotic factors such as air pollution, climate change, and excess sunlight. Lichens affected by LPDs have reduced growth rates and smaller thalli. To manage LPDs, avoid exposing the lichen to harmful abiotic stressors and maintain the optimal growth conditions for the lichen.
- Fungal Infection: Lichen diseases caused by fungal infection are relatively rare. Still, some may occur, including Laminarionema lichenicola and Verrucaria gemmifera. These infections lead to the loss of thallus tissue and decreased symbiotic functionality. The best strategy is to prune and dispose of infected thalli to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd.
Although lichens are not known to have many pests, some can occasional infest them. Here are some common pests that can affect Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd:
- Snails and Slugs: Snails and slugs can infest lichen thalli and feed on them, causing great damage. The best practice is to handpick and remove them or use repellents.
- Mites: Some mites are known to feed on lichen thalli. To control mites, avoid using chemical insecticides, as they may harm the lichen. Instead, create an environment that encourages the growth of mite predators such as other species of mites or fungi. Predatory insects such as ladybugs can also be introduced in the areas infested by mites.
