Overview
Lecidoma demissum (Rustr.) Gotth. Schneider & Hertel is a lichenized fungi species that belongs to the family of Lecanoraceae. This plant is commonly found in North America, especially in regions that have temperate climate such as the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountains.
General Appearance
Lecidoma demissum has a crustose thallus that is gray to greenish gray in color, and often scattered over rock or soil. The thallus is smooth and has a rounded margin. The apothecia is disk-shaped and can grow up to 1 mm in diameter. The color of the apothecia ranges from black to dark brown and has a slightly protruding margin.
Common Names
Lecidoma demissum goes by many common names, including Rock Back Lichen, Frosted Cat Lichen, and Fire Moss.
Uses
Lecidoma demissum does not have any known medicinal or culinary uses. However, it plays a vital role in ecosystems by providing a home for algae and bacteria that live within the thallus. It also acts as an indicator of how healthy an ecosystem is because it can be sensitive to air pollution and changes in temperature and humidity.
Overall, Lecidoma demissum is an interesting and important plant that contributes to the diversity and health of ecosystems in North America.Light Requirements
Lecidoma demissum requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth and development. It thrives in open, sunny areas where it can receive maximum sunlight exposure. This plant cannot tolerate shade or partial shade since it heavily relies on sunlight for photosynthesis, which is a critical process for the production of food and energy.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm temperature with a range of 20-24°C during the growing season. During the dormant period, temperatures should be cooler with a range of 10-15°C to foster dormancy. This plant can tolerate short-term periods of freezing and frost, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can affect its growth and cause damage.
Soil Requirements
Lecidoma demissum prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The optimal soil pH range for this plant is between 5.6-7.8. Soil fertility is also critical for the growth and development of this plant. The soil should be nutrient-rich and supplemented with fertilizers, if necessary. Additionally, the soil should be moist, but not waterlogged, as waterlogged conditions can cause root rot and other soil-borne diseases.
Cultivation Methods for Lecidoma demissum
Lecidoma demissum is an epiphytic plant, which means it grows on the surface of other plants. It is commonly found on the branches of trees and prefers an environment that is humid and shady with moderate temperatures. To cultivate Lecidoma demissum, you should mimic its natural environment as closely as possible.
You can grow Lecidoma demissum indoors in a greenhouse or outdoors if you live in a humid area with moderate temperatures.
Watering Needs for Lecidoma demissum
Watering Lecidoma demissum depends on the growing medium in which it is planted. If you have planted it on the bark of a tree, then watering is unnecessary as it can absorb water and nutrients from the tree through its roots. If it is grown in a pot, then it requires regular watering but make sure not to water too frequently as it can lead to root rot.
You can check if the plant needs watering by sticking your finger one inch deep into the growing medium, if it is dry, then it needs watering.
Fertilization of Lecidoma demissum
Lecidoma demissum does not require fertilization regularly. Even if grown in a pot, it can absorb sufficient nutrients from its surrounding environment. However, if you want to fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer with an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Use it in a diluted form, once every month, and avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning Lecidoma demissum
Lecidoma demissum does not require much pruning. However, if it becomes too large for its growing area or starts to look messy, then you can prune it during the active growing season. Simply remove the unwanted parts with a sharp and sterilized pair of scissors or pruners. Be sure to remove only the parts that are necessary to improve the plant's appearance or vitality.
Propagation of Lecidoma Demissum
Lecidoma demissum is a type of lichen that mainly grows on bark of trees, rocks, and soil. It is common in North America and Europe. The plant can propagate naturally or artificially.
Natural Propagation
The natural way of propagation for Lecidoma demissum is through spores. When the lichen produces spores, they are dispersed by air currents and can land on suitable substrates. Once they attach to the substrate, they start to grow and develop into a new plant. The development of spores into a new plant can take several years.
Artificial Propagation
Lecidoma demissum can also be propagated artificially. One way of doing this is through vegetative propagation. This involves dividing the existing thallus or fragmenting it. The new fragments can then be transferred onto a substrate and left to grow until they form a new plant. This method is relatively easy and can be done by anyone.
Another way to propagate Lecidoma demissum is through tissue culture. This method involves taking a small piece of the thallus and placing it in a nutrient medium. It is then left to grow in a controlled environment until it forms a new plant. Tissue culture is a more advanced method and requires a controlled environment and specialized equipment.
Disease Management
Lecidoma demissum is prone to fungal diseases, which can lead to severe damage if left untreated. The common fungal diseases that affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This disease is characterized by dark sunken lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruits. To manage the disease, prune the affected parts and avoid overhead irrigation. Apply a fungicide to protect the plant from further infection.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is characterized by a powdery white coating on the leaves and stems. To manage the disease, maintain good air circulation around the plant, water early in the day, and apply a fungicide.
- Rust: This disease is characterized by orange or red spots on the leaves. To manage the disease, prune the infected areas and dispose of them. Apply a fungicide to prevent further infection.
To prevent the spread of fungal diseases, it is essential to maintain good plant hygiene. Remove any dead or infected plant parts and dispose of them. Avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can create a favorable environment for fungal growth.
Pest Management
Lecidoma demissum is also susceptible to pest infestations, which can cause considerable damage to the plant. The common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These pests suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing deformation and yellowing. To manage the infestation, use a strong jet of water to dislodge the aphids, prune heavily infested parts, and apply an insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems, secreting a sticky substance and causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage the infestation, prune the affected areas and apply an insecticidal oil or soap.
- Spider mites: These pests feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing yellowing and webbing. To manage the infestation, increase the humidity around the plant, prune heavily infested parts, and apply a miticide.
To prevent pest infestations, it is crucial to maintain good plant hygiene. Remove any dead or infected plant parts and dispose of them. Monitor the plant regularly for signs of pest infestation, and take prompt action to control the problem.
