Overview
Miriquidica deusta (Stenham.) Hertel & Rambold is a lichenized fungus that belongs to the family Lecanoraceae. This plant is commonly known as the black stone flower or the burnt shield lichen. It is mainly found on damp soil, debris, and rocks that are exposed to sun and wind.Appearance
The black stone flower has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other lichenized fungi. Its thallus is gray to dark brown, usually with a lobate shape, and has a smooth surface. The edges of the thalli often curl upward and inward, giving it a shield or cup-like appearance. The apothecia or fruiting bodies of the fungus are sessile and densely clustered. They are black, flat to slightly convex, and often rimmed with a thin margin.Origin
Miriquidica deusta is widely distributed across regions with a temperate to cold climate, including Asia, Europe, and North America. It has also been reported in parts of South America and New Zealand. This plant is commonly found in boreal and subalpine habitats, where it colonizes a variety of substrates such as soil, bark, wood, and stones.Uses
Miriquidica deusta has been used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also used as a flavoring and coloring agent in the food industry, especially for bread and cheese. The black stone flower is also commonly used as a natural dye for textiles and leather. Moreover, it is a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and easy cultivation. In conclusion, Miriquidica deusta is a fascinating lichenized fungus with unique appearance and diverse uses. Its presence in different parts of the world also makes it an essential part of various ecological systems.Light Requirements
Miriquidica deusta is a lichen that prefers growing in areas with low to moderate light intensity. The plant cannot tolerate full sunlight and will most likely die if exposed to it for prolonged periods. Therefore, it's recommended to place it in a well-lit but shaded area. Such areas include under trees, near windows with sheer curtains, and shaded patios.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Miriquidica deusta is between 10 °C and 20 °C. This plant can tolerate extreme temperatures of up to 35 °C and as low as -15 °C. However, it requires a lot of extra care during extreme temperatures. During hot climates, it's necessary to cover it with a heat reflecting material, while during cold climates, place it in areas with insulation to prevent freezing. Keeping the temperature within the ideal range promotes better growth.
Soil Requirements
Miriquidica deusta is a lichen that typically grows on the bark of deciduous trees such as oak, maple, and elm. The plant requires high humidity levels, and the nutrient content required for growth is provided by the trees. Therefore, there is no particular soil requirement for this plant, as it does not directly use soil. However, it's essential to maintain the humidity of the environment it's in such that it's similar to the preferred habitat.
Cultivation methods
Miriquidica deusta is a lichen species that grows on trees or rocks, and it is not cultivated in the traditional sense. It can be found in various habitats, including forests, heaths, and the rocky shores of oceans and lakes. To enjoy its beauty, you may grow Miriquidica deusta on a substrate and display it indoors or outdoors.
Watering needs
Miriquidica deusta is drought-tolerant, and it can survive long periods without rain or irrigation. As a rule, it is unnecessary to water it, and overwatering may harm it. However, if you grow it indoors, you may mist it occasionally to maintain humidity levels. If you display it outdoors, rainfall is sufficient.
Fertilization
Miriquidica deusta does not require any fertilization. It obtains all its nutrients from the air, as it is an epiphytic lichen. It is important to ensure that the substrate it grows on, such as a rock or tree bark, is free from chemical contaminants, which may impair its growth or health.
Pruning
Miriquidica deusta does not require pruning as it does not have any roots or branches that need trimming. However, it may benefit from gentle cleaning with a soft bristle brush to remove dust or debris that may accumulate over time. This is important to allow proper gas exchange, which is vital for lichens to survive.
Propagation of Miriquidica deusta
Miriquidica deusta (Stenham.) Hertel & Rambold, commonly known as the black testate lichen, is a slow-growing, crustose species of lichen found growing on rocks and walls in central and northern Europe. It can grow up to 3 cm in diameter and is characterized by its black, shiny, convex thallus and its scattered, spherical apothecia.
Propagation of Miriquidica deusta can be achieved through vegetative or asexual methods, such as fragmentation and soredia production.
Fragmentation
Fragmentation is the process of breaking a part of the existing thallus and letting it develop into a new individual. In Miriquidica deusta, fragmentation can be achieved by carefully breaking off a portion of the thallus and placing it on a suitable surface. The thallus should be kept in a humid environment until it forms a new thallus.
Soredia Production
Soredia are small, powdery propagules produced by many lichen species that can be used for reproduction. In Miriquidica deusta, soredia are produced on the surface of the thallus and can be easily transferred to a new surface for growth. To propagate Miriquidica deusta using soredia, simply brush off the soredia from the thallus onto a suitable surface and keep it in a humid environment.
It is important to note that propagating Miriquidica deusta through these methods may take a long time, as the species is slow-growing. It is also important to ensure that the propagules are placed on a suitable surface where they can thrive and grow into new individuals.
Disease and Pest Management for Miriquidica deusta
Miriquidica deusta is a tough and adaptable lichen. However, like all plants, it can still succumb to disease and pest issues. Here are some common problems that might affect Miriquidica deusta, and some suggestions for how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Miriquidica deusta is black spot. This is a fungal infection that manifests as small black dots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to promptly remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering, as moisture can exacerbate the problem. Another common disease is leaf spot, which also appears as small black dots but with a yellowish halo. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and the plant should be kept clean and well-ventilated to prevent the spread of the disease.
Miriquidica deusta can also be affected by rust, which appears as brownish-orange spots on the leaves. To manage rust, remove infected leaves and practice good sanitation practices, such as cleaning up fallen leaves and debris around the plant. Fungal diseases can be managed with fungicides, but prevention is the best strategy.
Common Pests
Miriquidica deusta is relatively resistant to pests, but there are still a few insects that can cause problems. Spider mites are one of the most common insect pests, and they can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the plant thoroughly with a strong jet of water, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Scale insects are another potential issue, and they can cause yellowing and weakening of the plant. They can be removed by gently scraping them off with a soft brush or cloth, or by using insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars and other chewing insects can also occasionally affect Miriquidica deusta. Insecticides can be used to manage these pests, but it is important to identify the specific type of insect before treating, as some caterpillars are beneficial and should not be harmed. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to help control pest populations.
Overall, the best strategy for preventing disease and pest issues in Miriquidica deusta is to maintain good plant health through proper watering, fertilization, and pruning. Regular inspections of the plant can help catch problems early, before they become severe.
