Overview of Parmelia subelegantula Essl.
Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is a species of lichen belonging to the Parmeliaceae family. Its common names include Elegant Shield Lichen, Sub-elegant Shield Lichen, and Elegant Specklebelly. It is widely distributed in North America, Europe, and Asia. It is commonly found in forests, sometimes in exposed rocks, and occasionally growing on trees.
Appearance of Parmelia subelegantula Essl.
Parmelia subelegantula Essl. has a distinctive appearance. It forms large, foliose, lobed thalli, usually 5-25 cm in diameter. The upper surface is dark green, smooth and glossy; while the lower surface is pale brown and densely covered with rhizines. The lobes of the thallus are elongated to irregular, and its edges are curled downwards. It produces small, cup-shaped apothecia that are brown in color.
Uses of Parmelia subelegantula Essl.
For centuries, Parmelia subelegantula Essl. has been used for medicinal purposes by many cultures. The lichen contains several compounds that have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Its extracts have been used in treating sore throats, coughs, colds, and other respiratory problems. Additionally, it has been used as a natural dye, yielding various shades of yellow and brown. It is also a bioindicator of air pollution, indicating the degree of pollution in an area through its growth and health.
Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is also an important ecological component of many forest ecosystems. It contributes significantly to the primary productivity of the ecosystem through its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and create organic matter. It also provides habitat and food for a range of organisms such as insects, birds, and mammals.
Growth Conditions for Parmelia subelegantula Essl.
Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is an epiphytic lichen that is found in various habitats. The growth conditions required by this species are relatively common and can be replicated indoors or outdoors with ease. Below is an overview of the key growth conditions required by Parmelia subelegantula Essl.
Light
Light is an essential factor that contributes to the growth of Parmelia subelegantula Essl. This species thrives in moderate to high light conditions. Full sunlight exposure is not recommended as it can cause sunburn and dehydration. Ideally, indirect light is best for the optimal growth of Parmelia subelegantula Essl.
Temperature
Another crucial factor that contributes to the growth of Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is temperature. This species thrives in mild to cool temperatures which range from 5°C to 25°C. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but temperatures above 30°C and below -10°C can be detrimental to its growth. For best results, it is recommended to keep the temperature between 15°C and 20°C.
Soil Requirements
As an epiphytic lichen, Parmelia subelegantula Essl. does not have any specific soil requirements. It grows on the surface of rocks, tree bark, and other substrates. However, it is important to note that this species is sensitive to air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid growing it in areas with high levels of air pollution.
In conclusion, growing Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is relatively easy as it requires only moderate to high light exposure, mild to cool temperatures, and can grow on various substrates. With favorable growth conditions, Parmelia subelegantula Essl. can thrive and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.
Cultivation Methods
Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is primarily grown in outdoor settings, particularly in temperate and subtropical climates. This plant species is a type of foliose lichen that grows well on tree branches, rocks, and soil surfaces. The plant is tolerant of different temperature, humidity, and light-level conditions, and can survive for extended periods of time without watering or fertilization.
To cultivate Parmelia subelegantula Essl., select an outdoor space with a natural substrate that the plant can attach to, such as a rock or tree bark. Make sure that the substrate is clean and free of contaminants such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants. The best time to attach the plant to a substrate is during the rainy season or when the humidity is high, as this promotes faster attachment and growth of the plant.
Watering Needs
Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is a low-maintenance plant and can survive on rainfall alone. The plant needs a minimum of 25-30% relative humidity to stay alive and healthy. In drier areas with low humidity levels, occasional misting with a spray bottle or a humidifier can help maintain the desired moisture level.
Fertilization
Parmelia subelegantula Essl. does not need fertilization as it obtains its nutrients from the air. However, you can use water-soluble fertilizer or organic compost to enhance its growth and promote its attachment to the substrate. Over-fertilization can result in excessive plant growth and reduce the plant's ability to attach to the substrate, so be cautious not to fertilize often or too much.
Pruning
Pruning Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is not necessary as it does not have roots. However, if the plant becomes too large and overgrows the substrate, it may detach and fall off. If this happens, gently remove the plant from the substrate, trim the excess growth, and reattach it to the substrate. This ensures that the plant stays healthy and attractive.
Propagation of Parmelia subelegantula Essl.
Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is a lichen that grows in densely populated colonies on trees and rocks. Propagation of this plant is done through two main methods, which include:
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is a natural method of growth and expansion of Parmelia subelegantula Essl. It occurs when fragments of the lichen thallus break off from the parent colony and establish new growth on their own. These fragments can be spread by birds, wind, or rain.
Artificial vegetative propagation is also possible by breaking off small fragments of the lichen thallus and attaching them to suitable substrates. These fragments can establish new colonies if the substrate is favorable and environmental conditions are favorable.
Sexual propagation
Sexual propagation is another method of propagating Parmelia subelegantula Essl. It involves the fusion of haploid cells to form a diploid zygote. The zygote then develops into a fully matured plant, which produces spores for dispersal.
Sexual propagation in Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is triggered by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and moisture. Under favorable conditions, the lichen produces fruiting bodies (apothecia) that contain asci and spores. These spores can form new colonies when they fall on suitable substrates.
Both vegetative and sexual propagation are essential to the growth and spread of Parmelia subelegantula Essl. They enable the plant to adapt and thrive in different environments.
Disease and Pest Management for Parmelia subelegantula Essl.
Parmelia subelegantula Essl., commonly known as elegant sunburst lichen, is a lichen species that grows on bark, rock surfaces, and soil. Like other lichens, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can inhibit its growth and cause damage to its structures. It is essential to manage these issues promptly and efficiently to maintain the plant's health and vitality.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Parmelia subelegantula Essl. is lichenicolous fungi. These fungi attack and colonize some parts of the lichen's surface, leading to loss of color, tissue necrosis, and eventual death of the plant. Another disease agent is bacterial and fungal leaf spots, which cause characteristic circular or irregular shaped discolored patches on the lichen surface.
To manage lichenicolous fungi infestation, remove all infected parts of the plant and dispose of them correctly. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant to prevent the development of fungal and bacterial leaf spots. For severe cases, apply a fungicide spray to protect the remaining healthy parts of the lichen from further infections.
Common Pests
Several pests can attack Parmelia subelegantula Essl. The most common one is the lichen moth (Euphyia intermediata), which feeds on the lichen's thallus and destroys its structural integrity. The moth larvae are particularly voracious, and their feeding can lead to significant defoliation and lichen death. Other pests include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs.
To manage lichen moth infestation, use botanical insecticide compounds such as pyrethrin to deter the moths from feeding on the lichen. Insecticides should be applied regularly, following the manufacturer's recommended dosage and timing guidelines.
Conclusion
Disease and pest management are essential practices for maintaining the health and vitality of Parmelia subelegantula Essl. Some management practices include removing infected parts of the plant, avoiding over-fertilization, and using botanical insecticides. By implementing appropriate disease and pest management strategies, you can ensure a healthy and thriving lichen ecosystem in your garden or landscape.
