Overview
Parmotrema subisidiosum (Mull. Arg.) Hale is a foliose lichen that belongs to the family Parmeliaceae.
Origin
Parmotrema subisidiosum is found in several countries across the tropical regions, including Brazil, Costa Rica, Panama, and Venezuela. It grows on rocks, tree trunks, and soil.
Common Names
Common names for Parmotrema subisidiosum include Carnaval de Jirón, Old Man's Beard, and Beard Lichen.
General Appearance
The thallus is foliose, and up to 10 cm in diameter. It is greenish-gray, and the edges are curled up and uneven, giving it a lobed and wrinkled appearance. The underside of the thallus is brown, with numerous rhizines, which help in attachment to the substrate.
Uses
The lichen is used in traditional medicine for treating rheumatism, inflammation, and skin diseases. It has also been used as a dye and in perfumery.
Light Requirements
Parmentoma subisidiosum is a type of foliose lichen that requires moderate to low light exposure for optimal growth conditions. Exposure to sunlight for extended periods could lead to desiccation or drying out of the plant, reducing its growth rate and causing the leaves to curl and twist. To maintain optimal light conditions, it is recommended to place the plant in a partially shaded area, such as under a tree canopy or in a north-facing window.
Temperature Requirements
Parmentoma subisidiosum is known to thrive in cool to warm temperatures ranging from 10°C - 30°C (50°F - 86°F). It is not uncommon for the plant to survive extreme heat or frost conditions, but this could adversely affect its growth rate and appearance. The optimal temperature range for the plant is 18°C - 24°C (64°F - 75°F). It is crucial to avoid sudden temperature changes, as this could lead to stress-induced damages and adversely affect the growth rate of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Parmotrema subisidiosum are relatively flexible, as it is a type of epiphytic lichen that grows on other plants, trees, or rocks. The lichen is known to tolerate a wide range of soil compositions, and it is devoid of roots or a vascular system. Therefore, it is not dependent on soil nutrients for its growth and survival. However, it thrives in areas with high humidity and moisture levels, and the presence of organic matter, such as decaying leaves, could enhance its growth rate. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in areas with consistent moisture levels, such as near waterfalls or ponds, and to avoid placing it in areas with high pollution levels or direct exposure to pesticides or herbicides.
Cultivation of Parmotrema subisidiosum
Parmotrema subisidiosum is a lichen that grows naturally on trees, rocks, and soil in tropical areas. It can be grown in home gardens and greenhouses with relative ease.
It is important to note that Parmotrema subisidiosum grows symbiotically with algae and requires specific environmental conditions to flourish.
Watering Needs for Parmotrema subisidiosum
To thrive, Parmotrema subisidiosum requires regular misting with a spray bottle and high humidity levels. Avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can lead to bacterial and fungal growth that can harm the lichen.
Fertilization for Parmotrema subisidiosum
Fertilization is not necessary as Parmotrema subisidiosum obtains its nutrients from the environment and symbiotic relationship with algae. However, if you choose to fertilize, use a diluted, organic fertilizer specifically formulated for use on lichens to avoid damaging the lichen's delicate structure.
Pruning of Parmotrema subisidiosum
Pruning is not necessary for Parmotrema subisidiosum as it grows slowly and does not require shaping. If any dead or damaged portions are visible, they can be gently removed by hand to encourage healthy growth. Always handle the lichen with care to avoid damaging its structure.
Propagation of Parmotrema subisidiosum (Mull. Arg.) Hale
Parmotrema subisidiosum (Mull. Arg.) Hale is a species of foliose lichen found in many parts of the world. It grows on trees, rocks, and soil and is an important source of food and medicine for many animals and humans. If you want to propagate Parmotrema subisidiosum, you can do so using one of three main methods: vegetative propagation, fragmentation, or spore propagation.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is the simplest and fastest method of propagating Parmotrema subisidiosum. It involves taking a small piece of thallus (the main body of the lichen) from a healthy specimen and attaching it to a new substrate. The substrate can be soil, a tree trunk, a rock, or any other surface suitable for lichen growth. The thallus should be attached to the substrate using a clear adhesive or by simply pressing it firmly against the substrate. Keep the newly propagated lichen in a moist and humid environment until it has established itself on the new substrate.
Fragmentation propagation
Fragmentation propagation is another way to propagate Parmotrema subisidiosum. This method involves breaking off pieces of the lichen and attaching them to a new substrate, similar to vegetative propagation. However, in fragmentation propagation, you don't need to worry about taking a particular part of the thallus. Instead, just take a small fragment of the lichen and attach it to a new substrate. The fragment will grow into a new specimen, provided it has enough moisture and nutrients to survive.
Spore propagation
Spore propagation is the most challenging method of propagating Parmotrema subisidiosum. This method involves collecting spores from a mature specimen and then growing these spores in a special culture. Once the spores have grown into young plants, they can be transferred to a new substrate for further growth. Spore propagation requires a sterile environment, specialized equipment, and plenty of patience. Only experienced gardeners or researchers should attempt this method.
Disease and Pest Management for Parmotrema subisidiosum (Mull. Arg.) Hale
Parmotrema subisidiosum (Mull. Arg.) Hale is a lichen commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. While these lichens are generally resilient and low maintenance, they can still fall prey to various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests to watch out for, and how to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal infections: Lichens are made up of two organisms that live as a symbiotic relationship, a fungus and an alga. However, parasitic fungi can infect the fungal partner and cause lichen diseases. Symptoms of fungal infections include discoloration, deformation, and discolored fruiting bodies. The best way to manage fungal infections is to maintain balanced growth conditions by providing proper light, humidity, and avoiding excessive watering. Fungicides may be used as last resort option.
Lichen spot diseases: These are caused by opportunistic fungi that can cause small spots and discolorations on the thallus. It is usually caused by an imbalanced environment with high humidity and poor air circulation. Prune affected areas and maintain good ventilation. Control by using fungicides may be used occasionally.
Pests
Herbivorous insects: Coccids, mites, and thrips are common pests that can infest lichens. They feed on the algal component of lichens, often leaving characteristic lacy patterns on the thallus. They are usually not a problem unless the infestation is severe. If you see a pest infestation, gently rinse the plant with warm water mixed with a mild soap and apply insecticides if necessary. Biological control with predatory insects may also be an option.
Snails and slugs: These pests are not common but can eat the thallus of the lichen. Manual removal is usually sufficient to manage slug and snail infestations. You can also use organic slug and snail baits or copper tape around the pot to repel them.
By monitoring your plant closely and taking appropriate management steps, you can help keep your Parmotrema subisidiosum healthy and thriving.
