Plant Description
Mycocalicium americanum (R. Sant.) Tibell, commonly known as American mycocalicium, is a species of lichenized fungi that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. The thallus of the fungus is crustose and forms small, scattered or densely packed colonies that are circular or irregular in shape, measuring about 2-10 cm in diameter. The color of the thallus is grayish-yellow to brown or greenish-brown, and the surface is smooth and shiny.
The apothecia, which are the fruiting bodies of the fungus, are rare and can be found on the thallus surface. They are small, rounded, and reddish-brown in color, measuring about 0.3-0.7 mm in diameters. The spores of the fungus are colorless and have dimensions of about 14-17 x 6-7 µm.
Plant Origin and Common Names
Mycocalicium americanum is native to the United States and can be found in the Appalachian Mountains, as well as in the southeastern parts of the country, growing on the bark of trees, particularly oaks, hickories, and maples.
The common name of Mycocalicium americanum is American mycocalicium.
Plant Uses
There is limited information on the uses of Mycocalicium americanum. However, like other lichens, it is believed to have medicinal properties. Some studies have found that the lichen species in the genus Caliciaceae contain secondary metabolites that exhibit antimicrobial, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities.
Mycocalicium americanum is also used as an indicator of air quality, as it is sensitive to air pollution and can accumulate high levels of heavy metals.
Light Requirements
Mycocalicium americanum is a lichen species that prefers to grow in partial to full shade environments. Exposure to direct sunlight can damage the thallus and hinder growth, so it is best to plant this species in an area where it is protected from direct exposure to the sun's rays.
Temperature Requirements
This species is most commonly found growing in temperate regions, with optimal growth occurring between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Mycocalicium americanum can tolerate colder temperatures, however, growth may be slower in colder environments. Extreme heat and cold can cause damage to the thallus, so it's important to maintain a stable and appropriate temperature for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Mycocalicium americanum is a lichenized fungus and does not require soil to grow. This species can grow on various substrates such as rocks, bark, and wood, but typically grows on the acid bark of deciduous or coniferous trees. It is essential that the substrate is moist and well-drained for optimal growth. Mycocalicium americanum has been known to tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline substrates, but it is best to keep its environment within a neutral pH range for the best growth outcome.
Cultivation
Mycocalicium americanum is a lichen species commonly found growing on trees in temperate and boreal forests. Cultivating it in a controlled environment is not recommended as it grows naturally in the wild, but it can be transplanted to a suitable location in your garden or yard.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Mycocalicium americanum are minimal. It generally thrives in areas with high humidity and an abundance of moisture, so the plants should be watered regularly in dry periods. Avoid overwatering the plants as it might cause root rot.
Fertilization
Mycocalicium americanum does not require any special fertilization. If you want to fertilize the surrounding soil or substrate, use a slow-release, general-purpose fertilizer in moderate amounts that should be applied in the early spring or late fall.
Pruning
There is no need to prune Mycocalicium americanum. It's okay to remove any dead or damaged branches surrounding the plant, but avoid cutting the lichen itself or the bark of its host trees, as it can cause significant damage to the plant and affect its ability to grow and reproduce.
Propagation of Mycocalicium americanum
Mycocalicium americanum, also known as American powderhorn, is a lichen species commonly found in North America. Propagation of this plant can be done through two main methods: vegetative propagation and sexual reproduction.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves the transfer of a part of the parent plant to grow as an independent plant. In Mycocalicium americanum, vegetative propagation can be achieved through the fragmentation of thallus or soredia. Thallus is the main body part of the lichen, and soredia are small reproductive structures located on the surface of the thallus. These structures contain both fungal and algal cells, and when they detach from the parent plant and land on a suitable substrate, they can grow into a new lichen plant.
When fragmenting the thallus, it is crucial to ensure that a portion containing both fungal and algal cells is included in the detached section because Mycocalicium americanum requires both these elements to grow. Fragmented pieces can be transplanted into suitable substrates, such as rocks or tree barks, and can be irrigated to promote growth.
Sexual Reproduction
Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female reproductive cells to produce new offspring. In Mycocalicium americanum, sexual reproduction can take place through the production of fruiting bodies called apothecia, which are composed of hymenial layer and a stalk. The hymenial layer is the reproductive component, and the stalk allows the hymenium to reach the surface of the thallus for spore dispersal.
Once the spores are dispersed, they can germinate on suitable substrates, and the mycobiont and photobiont can establish a symbiotic relationship to form a new thallus. Sexual reproduction can be used to generate genetic diversity within the population and is essential for the long-term survival of Mycocalicium americanum.
Disease and Pest Management for Mycocalicium americanum
Mycocalicium americanum is an epiphytic lichen commonly found in the eastern United States. This plant is generally low maintenance and has few disease and pest issues. However, in some cases, certain diseases and pests can affect the growth and health of the plant.
Common Diseases
One common disease that affects Mycocalicium americanum is bacterial spot. This disease causes black spots on the leaves and can be controlled with copper-based fungicides. Another disease is lichen scale, which can cause yellowing of the leaves and eventual decline of the plant. Lichen scale can be controlled with horticultural oil sprays.
Common Pests
The most common pest that affects Mycocalicium americanum is spider mites. These pests cause yellowing and leaf drop and can be treated with miticides. Another pest that affects this plant is scale insects. Scale insects attach themselves to the needles and suck the sap, causing yellowing and weakening of the plant. Scale insects can be treated with horticultural oil and insecticidal soap.
Disease and Pest Management
The best way to manage diseases and pests that affect Mycocalicium americanum is through prevention. Proper care and maintenance, including regular watering, fertilization, pruning, and removal of dead or damaged branches, can help keep the plant healthy and less susceptible to diseases and pests. Additionally, the use of protective measures like copper-based fungicides, horticultural oil sprays, and miticides can help to control diseases and pests if they do occur on the plant. It is important to read and follow the instructions on all products carefully to ensure safe and effective use.
