Overview:
Lecidella subincongrua (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert var. elaeochromoides (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert is a lichen species that belongs to the family Lecanoraceae. It is commonly known as the wax paper lichen. The plant has a significant ecological value and is quite widespread throughout Europe.
Appearance:
The wax paper lichen has a thallus that is crustose in form, meaning that it forms a thin crust over the substrate it grows on. It has a pale-grey to whitish-green color and a smooth surface that is glossy and slightly wrinkled. The thallus is about 0.1-0.3 mm in thickness and adheres tightly to the substrate. The apothecia of L. subincongrua var. elaeochromoides are small, round and pimple-like in shape. It can form dense colonies that spread over a large area and forms a semi-circle shape.
Origin:
Lecidella subincongrua var. elaeochromoides is found throughout Europe, specifically in countries such as Norway, UK, Sweden, Switzerland, and Germany. It grows under shade and damp environments such as underneath trees, on rocks, and deadwood. It can also grow in polluted areas with high nitrogen levels.
Uses:
The wax paper lichen has significant ecological value as it acts as an indicator of air pollution and ecosystem health. The presence or absence of L. subincongrua var. elaeochromoides indicates the quality of air in the environment it inhabits. It also plays a role in nutrient cycling and soil formation. In some cultures, lichens like this are used for medicinal purposes.
Overall, Lecidella subincongrua (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert var. elaeochromoides (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert is a unique and ecologically important lichen species that is highly adaptive to its surroundings. Its appearance is distinct, especially when it forms colonies, and it plays an essential role in environmental health.Light Requirements
Lecidella subincongrua var. elaeochromoides requires moderate to high light levels for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but may not thrive in low light conditions. It is best grown in areas with dappled sunlight or indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is a cold-hardy lichen and can tolerate low temperatures. It can grow in areas with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. However, it prefers cooler temperatures and grows best in areas with temperatures between 10°C to 18°C. If grown indoors, it must be kept in cool, well-ventilated areas.
Soil Requirements
Lecidella subincongrua var. elaeochromoides typically grows on rocky surfaces and trees. It is a soil-less plant and does not require soil for growth. Instead, it obtains nutrients from the atmosphere and through photosynthesis. It is important to note that this plant is sensitive to air pollution and may not survive in areas with high levels of pollution.
Cultivation Methods
Lecidella subincongrua (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert var. elaeochromoides (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert is an epiphytic lichen that grows on the bark of trees. It requires a stable substrate and prefers to grow in areas with high humidity and precipitation. To cultivate this plant, it is best to mimic its natural growing conditions as much as possible.
One approach to creating optimal growing conditions is to use a substrate similar to the plant's natural habitat. A mixture of organic matter and bark provides a stable and suitable base for the lichen to grow. Keep the substrate damp, but not wet, to provide the necessary moisture.
This plant thrives in partial to full shade, making it suitable for growing indoors or in a shaded outdoor area. Keep the temperature between 15-25°C (59-77°F) to provide optimal conditions for growth.
Watering Needs
Lecidella subincongrua (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert var. elaeochromoides (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert requires consistent and steady moisture levels. It's important to keep the substrate damp but not wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Water the plant regularly, monitoring the substrate moisture levels. If the substrate feels dry, it's time to water. Aim to water the plant every 2-3 days, adjusting the frequency based on humidity levels and temperature.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for the growth and development of Lecidella subincongrua (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert var. elaeochromoides (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert. This epiphytic lichen obtains its nutrients from the surrounding environment.
However, adding a bit of organic matter to the substrate can help create a nutrient-rich environment that supports the plant's growth.
Pruning
Lecidella subincongrua (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert var. elaeochromoides (Nyl.) Hertel & Leuckert does not require pruning as it has a natural growth pattern. However, if the plant becomes too large, it can be carefully removed from the substrate and divided, allowing it to grow in multiple locations. Be sure to avoid damaging the delicate roots when dividing the plant.
If you notice any dead or damaged tissue, it is best to remove it promptly to prevent the spread of any potential diseases. Use clean and sterilized pruning shears to make a clean cut.
Propagation of Lecidella subincongrua var. elaeochromoides
Lecidella subincongrua var. elaeochromoides can be propagated through a vegetative method called fragmentation or by spores.
Fragmentation:
Fragmentation involves breaking off a part of the plant and replanting it. This method is useful for sustaining the growth and longevity of the plant. The ideal time for fragmentation is in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
To fragment the plant, select a healthy and well-developed section of the plant and gently detach it from the main plant. Plant the detached section in a well-draining soil mix, making sure to water it immediately to stimulate root growth.
Spores:
Spores are the reproductive structures produced by Lecidella subincongrua var. elaeochromoides. They are microscopic and can be propagated by following these steps:
- Collect the spores using a sterilized blade or scraper and transfer them to a petri dish containing a nutrient agar medium.
- Ensure that the petri dish is covered to provide a humid environment and incubate it in a growth chamber at a temperature of 17-20°C and a light period of 12 hours.
- Monitor the dish regularly for signs of spore germination, which can take up to several weeks.
- Once the germination process has begun, transfer the germinated spores to a suitable substrate such as sterilized soil mix and grow them until they are mature enough to be transplanted.
Disease Management
Lecidella subincongrua var. elaeochromoides is a hardy lichen species that is generally resistant to diseases. However, a few diseases may still affect the plant. One of the most common diseases to affect L. subincongrua var. elaeochromoides is lichen spot disease.
Lichen spot disease can cause unsightly discoloration on the plant's thallus surface. The disease is usually caused by fungal pathogens such as Lichenostigma and Marchandiomyces species. To manage lichen spot disease, it is advisable to remove and dispose of all infected plant materials. You can also apply a fungicide spray to help control the disease.
Pest Management
Lecidella subincongrua var. elaeochromoides is also resistant to most pests. However, it may still be attacked by a few pests. One of the most common pests that affect L. subincongrua var. elaeochromoides is the woolly aphid.
Woolly aphids can cause serious damage to the plant by sucking sap and nutrients from its thallus surface. The pest is usually characterized by its white and fluffy appearance. To control woolly aphids on L. subincongrua var. elaeochromoides, it is advisable to use natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewing larvae. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap to manage the pest.
