Description of Parmelia subinvoluta Hale
Parmelia subinvoluta Hale is a species of lichen, a composite organism made up of a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium, that belongs to the Parmeliaceae family.
Origin and Common Names
Parmelia subinvoluta Hale is commonly known as the "golden hair lichen" due to its appearance. It is native to North America, particularly in the northern parts of the continent, including Alaska and Canada.
Uses
Parmelia subinvoluta Hale is not known to have any significant medicinal or commercial uses. However, it has been used in the past as a source of natural dyes. The lichen can produce a yellow or orange dye that has been used to dye wool and other textiles.
General Appearance
Parmelia subinvoluta Hale is a foliose lichen that typically grows in large, circular or irregularly shaped clumps. The lichen has a bright yellow or orange color, with a smooth, flat thallus (body) that can grow up to 12 centimeters in diameter. The edges of the thallus may be slightly curled or rolled under, giving the lichen a slightly cupped appearance.
The underside of the thallus is covered with small, hair-like appendages known as rhizines, which anchor the lichen to the substrate on which it grows. The rhizines may be black or brown in color and are usually clustered in groups.
Overall, Parmelia subinvoluta Hale is a striking and beautiful lichen that can be easily recognized by its bright yellow or orange color and its large, circular thallus.
Growth Conditions for Parmelia subinvoluta Hale
Plant species like Parmelia subinvoluta Hale thrive best in particular growth conditions that favor their growth and development. Understanding these conditions is crucial for successful growth and cultivation. Here are the typical growth conditions for Parmelia subinvoluta Hale.
Light
Like most lichen species, Parmelia subinvoluta Hale thrives in moderate to high light intensity environments. This species, in particular, prefers bright, indirect light stemming from filtered sunlight or partial shade. Growth in poorly lit environments leads to reduced photosynthesis and inevitable stunted growth.
Temperature
Temperature plays a vital role in the growth and survival of Parmelia subinvoluta Hale. This lichen species has adapted to a wide range of temperatures, ranging from cool damp environments to warm and arid conditions. Optimal growth temperatures range between 15?- 20? with humidity levels between 70 – 90%. At higher temperatures, Parmelia subinvoluta Hale tends to dry out, leading to brittle and low-quality thalli.
Soil Requirements
Parmelia subinvoluta Hale does not have typical foliage and roots like other plants, making its growth media a critical factor in its survival. This lichen species grows on other plants, rocks or directly on the soil surface. This implies that the soil or substrate should contain the necessary nutrients required for successful lichen growth.
Typically, a well-draining substrate provides a healthy colonization surface for Parmelia subinvoluta Hale. The soil should be slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, with pH levels ranging between 5.5-8.0. In addition, this lichen species prefers growth substrates with low nitrogen content.
Creating an optimal environment for the growth of Parmelia subinvoluta Hale may seem challenging, especially for a beginner. However, maintaining these growth factors will lead to healthy growth and development, enhancing the aesthetic value of your garden or environment.
Cultivation
Parmelia subinvoluta Hale grows well in outdoor conditions. The plant thrives in moist, wooded areas and has a tendency to grow on trees, rocks, and soil. Therefore, it needs well-draining soil that retains moisture. The ideal pH range of the growing medium should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
If you want to grow Parmelia subinvoluta Hale at home, you can use a terrarium or a glass container where the plant can thrive. The container should have a cover that can be removed or opened periodically to prevent moisture buildup.
Watering Needs
Due to its nature and habitat, Parmelia subinvoluta Hale prefers damp conditions; hence it needs to be watered regularly. Water the plant when the soil or growing medium feels dry to touch, but be careful not to give it too much or too little water. Also, avoid watering the leaves directly as this could cause damage.
For indoor cultivation, mist the plant regularly to maintain a humid environment. Outdoor plants need watering often, especially during dry seasons.
Fertilization
Parmelia subinvoluta Hale does not require regular fertilization as it can source nutrients from the air and rain. However, if you notice that the growth of the plant is stunted or the color of the leaves is fading, you may add a small amount of organic fertilizer to the growing medium.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Parmelia subinvoluta Hale, as it is a slow-growing plant that does not get too bushy or tangled. Instead, focus on maintaining good cultural practices such as regular watering and careful selection of the planting location.
Propagation of Parmelia subinvoluta Hale
Propagation of Parmelia subinvoluta Hale can be done through either sexual or asexual means. This species belongs to the lichen group, which means that its reproduction involves the fusion of fungal and algal partners.
Asexual Propagation
In the case of Parmelia subinvoluta Hale, asexual propagation occurs through fragmentation or isidia formation. When the thallus of the lichen breaks off into smaller pieces due to external factors like wind or rain, each fragment may develop into a new individual under favorable conditions. Isidia, on the other hand, are small outgrowths of the thallus that detach and grow into new individuals when they come into contact with a suitable substrate.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation in Parmelia subinvoluta Hale involves the production of ascospores through the apothecia or spore-bearing structures on the thallus. The ascospores are then released into the air and dispersed by wind. Upon landing on a suitable substrate, the spore germinates and develops into a new individual.
Propagation success in Parmelia subinvoluta Hale is dependent on several factors, including favorable environmental conditions, availability of suitable substrates, and the presence of compatible fungal and algal partners for sexual reproduction.
Disease Management for Parmelia subinvoluta Hale
Parmelia subinvoluta Hale is a lichen species that can be prone to various diseases. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Lichen spot disease: This disease manifests as small, circular spots that are either gray or brown.
- Lichen scab disease: This disease causes brown or black patches on the thallus of the lichen.
- Lichen canker disease: This disease causes open sores on the surface of the lichen, and it can eventually kill the plant if left untreated.
The best way to manage diseases in Parmelia subinvoluta Hale is through prevention. This involves proper site selection, avoiding over-fertilization, and removing infected plant parts as soon as possible. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of disease can also prevent its spread.
Pest Management for Parmelia subinvoluta Hale
Parmelia subinvoluta Hale can also be affected by various pests. Here are some of the most common pests to watch out for:
- Mites: These tiny insects can cause discoloration and distortion of the plant's thallus.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing of the plant's thallus and can even cause the plant to drop its leaves.
- Snails and slugs: These pests can eat holes in the lichen, damaging its overall appearance.
The best way to manage pests in Parmelia subinvoluta Hale is to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. Handpicking the pests off the plant can be effective if the infestation is minor. However, if the infestation is major or the handpicking method does not work, using an appropriate pesticide may be necessary. It is important to choose a pesticide that will not harm the lichen or any beneficial insects in the surrounding area.
