Origin of Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge
Parmelia mellissii is a lichen species that belongs to the family Parmeliaceae. It was first identified and named by Charles Wright Dodge in 1890. The plant is commonly found in the Hawaiian Islands, where it grows on rocks and trees.
Common Names of Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge
Parmelia mellissii is commonly known as Melliss's shield lichen, Melliss's Parmelia, or simply Parmelia lichen.
Uses of Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge
The plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been used by native Hawaiians for centuries. It is believed to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and was used to treat wounds and skin infections. The lichen was also used for its dyeing properties, and the yellowish-green color it produces was used to dye clothing and other materials.
General Appearance of Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge
Parmelia mellissii is a foliose lichen that has a lobed thallus. The thallus is about 10-15 cm wide and is tightly attached to the substrate. The lobes are elongated and have a slightly wavy margin. The upper surface of the thallus is greenish-yellow and smooth, while the lower surface is brownish and has rhizines that help the lichen to attach to the substrate. The apothecia are cup-shaped and have a reddish-brown color.
Light Requirements:
Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge typically grows in shaded or partially shaded areas. Therefore, it requires only moderate light levels. Direct sunlight can damage or dry up the plant, so it’s essential to grow it in a place where it receives filtered light.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant requires a cool and humid environment to grow healthily. It thrives at temperatures between 50 and 68°F (10-20°C). Anything above or below this range can cause serious damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements:
As Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge is an epiphyte lichen, it doesn't need soil to grow. It typically grows on surfaces such as rocks, trees, or soil where it can absorb moisture and nutrients. However other members of Parmeliaceae are growing well on terricolous conditions.
Cultivation methods
When it comes to cultivating Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge, it's essential to provide the perfect growing conditions for optimum growth. This plant thrives in areas that receive partial or full shade and require good air circulation. You can either cultivate it on rocks or trees. If you choose to cultivate it on rocks, find a damp location where the rock won't dry out quickly. If you want to cultivate it on trees, use a wire to attach the plant to the tree branches.
Watering needs
Parimeilia mellissii C.W. Dodge requires frequent watering to stay healthy and grow well. However, it's crucial to avoid water logging the plant, as it can lead to root rot. The watering frequency will differ based on the growing conditions. During the hot and dry season, you'll need to water it more frequently to prevent drying out, while in the cold season, the frequency goes down.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge isn't necessary. However, you can use a diluted fertilizer on the plant, applied on the rocks and not on the plant itself. Contributing organic matter to the growing media can also help promote growth.
Pruning
Trimming of Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge isn't essential. However, if you notice that the plant has overgrown or developed dead parts, you can remove that part to redirect the plant's energy to healthy parts. You can do this by either using a sharp pair of scissors or your hands.
Propagation of Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge
Propagation of Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge can be done through vegetative methods, which involves the fragmentation of thallus or the use of propagules.
Fragmentation of Thallus
The fragmentation of thallus can be done by manually tearing apart pieces of the lichen's thallus and attaching them to a suitable substrate, such as rocks or tree barks. Fragmentation is generally done during the lichen's growth period, which is typically in autumn and winter when the lichen is metabolically active. The fragmented thalli will attach to the substrate and grow into new individuals.
Use of Propagules
Propagules are small, specialized structures that are produced by the lichen for the purpose of asexual propagation. Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge produces soredia, which are small clusters of algal cells and fungal hyphae that are surrounded by fungal filaments. These propagules can be dispersed by air or water and can germinate in appropriate conditions to form new individuals.
Another type of propagule produced by P. mellissii is isidia, which are small, cylindrical outgrowths of the thallus that contain both algal cells and fungal hyphae. Isidia can detach from the thallus and grow into new individuals under favorable conditions.
Disease Management
Plant Parmelia mellissii C. W. Dodge is vulnerable to different types of diseases, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Here are some of the most common diseases affecting Parmelia mellissii and ways to manage them:
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial diseases are challenging to control and often lead to severe damage to the plant. To manage bacterial infections in Parmelia mellissii, it is best to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Maintain good sanitation practices, such as keeping the plant and its surroundings clean. Also, avoid overwatering, as it can create a favorable environment for bacterial growth. Use of copper-based fungicides control bacterial infections in plants comparatively efficiently.
Viral Infections
Viral infections in Parmelia mellissii can cause stunted growth, chlorosis, and malformed leaves. However, there is no specific treatment for viral infections in plants. One of the best ways to control viral infections is to destroy the infected plant and sterilize the surrounding soil. Also, prevent the spread of the virus by washing your hands and tools after handling infected plants.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are common in Parmelia mellissii and can cause significant damage to the plant's growth and productivity. Control fungal infections in plants through proper ventilation, and avoid overwatering the plant. Fungicides can also be used to control fungal diseases.
Pest Management
Like other plants, Parmelia mellissii is vulnerable to pests such as insects and mites. Infestation by some of these pests may cause severe damage to the plant. Here are some common pests affecting Parmelia mellissii and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are common pests that attack Parmelia mellissii. To control spider mites, remove affected plant parts, and apply insecticides, neem oil and insecticidal soaps are effective control agents. Also, maintain adequate humidity levels, as spider mites thrive on dry leaves.
Scale Insects
Scale insects attack the plant by inserting their mouthparts into the plant tissue and feed on sap. They cause stunted growth, defoliation, and premature leaf drop. Remove the affected plant parts and control the pest by applying insecticidal soaps and neem oil.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails can damage the plant by feeding on leaves and soft stems. Control them by handpicking and using slug baits or copper barriers to keep them away from the plant.
