Overview
Peltigera cinnamomea Goward is a species of foliose lichen found in western North America. It is a member of the genus Peltigera and the family Peltigeraceae.
Origin and Distribution
Peltigera cinnamomea Goward is found in western North America, from Alaska to California. It is commonly found in coastal areas, as well as in wetlands and boreal forests.
Common Names
Peltigera cinnamomea Goward is commonly known as cinnabar dog-lichen, cinnamon-colored pelt lichen, and cinnamon ribbons.
Appearance
Peltigera cinnamomea Goward has a distinctive appearance, with large cinnamon-colored lobes that are highly branched and frilly at the edges. The underside of the lobes is covered in small, hair-like structures called rhizines, which help the lichen attach to its substrate. The upper surface of the lobes is smooth and shiny, with irregularly shaped, pale green to grayish-green patches. Peltigera cinnamomea Goward can grow up to 15 centimeters in diameter, making it one of the larger species in the genus.
Medicinal Uses
Peltigera cinnamomea Goward has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes. In particular, it has been used to treat sores, wounds, and other skin ailments. It has also been used to treat sore eyes, fever, and coughs. Recent studies have shown that Peltigera cinnamomea Goward has potential medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.
Light Requirements
Peltigera cinnamomea grows best in partially shaded areas with dappled sunlight. It can also tolerate full shade but grows slower in these conditions. Direct, intense sunlight can harm the plant and cause it to dry out.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Peltigera cinnamomea growth is between 10°C - 20°C. At temperatures above 25°C, the plant may begin to show stress and dry out. It can survive in colder temperatures but will grow slower in these conditions.
Soil Requirements
Peltigera cinnamomea prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level between 5.5 - 7.0. It can grow in a variety of soil types including sandy, loamy or clayey soils. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, as the plant needs a constant supply of water to survive.
Cultivation of Peltigera cinnamomea Goward
Peltigera cinnamomea Goward, commonly known as the Cinnamon pelt, is an attractive lichen that can be grown easily on a variety of surfaces like bark, rocks, or soil in shady areas. It can thrive in moist and humid conditions and is a perfect addition to your garden or indoor space.
Watering Needs of Peltigera cinnamomea Goward
Although Peltigera cinnamomea Goward is tolerant to dry conditions, it prefers moist environments and requires consistent moisture to thrive. During the rainy season, the lichen receives enough water from the rain, but if it does not rain regularly, it needs to be watered frequently. When watering, ensure that the lichen is misted rather than saturated.
Fertilization of Peltigera cinnamomea Goward
Fertilization is not necessary for Peltigera cinnamomea Goward, as it can obtain nutrients from its symbiotic partner, the algae. Using fertilizers can harm the lichen and affect its growth and development. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid fertilizers in caring for Peltigera cinnamomea Goward.
Pruning of Peltigera cinnamomea Goward
Pruning is not necessary for Peltigera cinnamomea Goward, as it slowly grows and spreads. However, if needed, it can be pruned using a pair of scissors to remove any dead parts or to prevent overcrowding. Pruning should be done with care to avoid damaging the lichen.
Propagation of Peltigera cinnamomea Goward
Peltigera cinnamomea Goward, also known as cinnamon pelt lichen, is a beautiful lichen that grows on the ground or on rocks. It is a symbiotic association of a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, either algae or cyanobacteria. Propagation of P. cinnamomea can be done in several ways.
Propagation by Fragmentation
One way to propagate P. cinnamomea is by fragmentation. This can be done by taking a piece of the lichen and attaching it to a suitable substrate. The substrate must be moist and shaded, and should have the same pH and mineral content as the natural habitat of the lichen. The lichen fragment should be placed on the substrate and left to attach and grow. It is important to avoid exposing the lichen to direct sunlight or desiccation during the initial stages of growth.
Propagation by Soredia
Another way to propagate P. cinnamomea is by soredia. Soredia are small, powdery structures that contain both the fungal and photosynthetic partners. They are often found on the surface of the lichen, and can easily be separated from the parent lichen. To propagate P. cinnamomea using soredia, the soredia should be sprinkled onto a suitable substrate, in a shaded and moist location. The soredia should attach to the substrate and begin to grow, forming a new colony of the lichen.
Propagation by Isidia
P. cinnamomea can also be propagated by isidia. Isidia are small, finger-like projections that grow from the surface of the lichen. They contain both the fungal and photosynthetic partners, and can be easily broken off the parent lichen. To propagate using isidia, they can be placed on a suitable substrate and left to grow. The same conditions as for soredia should be provided, including shade, moisture, and appropriate mineral content.
Overall, P. cinnamomea can be propagated using several methods. Fragmentation, soredia, and isidia are all viable options for establishing new colonies of this beautiful lichen.
Disease and Pest Management for Peltigera cinnamomea Goward Plant
Peltigera cinnamomea Goward, commonly known as the cinnamon-colored dog lichen, is a species of lichen found in North America. As with any type of plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are the most common ones that can affect Peltigera cinnamomea Goward and some ways to manage them:
Diseases
One of the main diseases that can affect Peltigera cinnamomea Goward is the root rot disease caused by soil-borne pathogens like Fusarium oxysporum and Rhizoctonia solani. The symptoms of this disease include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, it is advisable to avoid over-watering and to ensure proper drainage. Also, using pathogen-free potting soil and watering the plants with a fungicide-treated solution can help prevent the disease from spreading.
Another disease that can affect this plant is the leaf spot disease caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella peltigerae. The symptoms of this disease include circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to defoliation. To manage this disease, it is advisable to prune the infected leaves and discard them to prevent the disease from spreading. Also, using a copper-based fungicide can help control the disease and prevent it from recurring.
Pests
One of the main pests that can affect Peltigera cinnamomea Goward is the spider mite. This pest can cause significant damage to the leaves, leading to a reduction in plant growth and vigor. The first step in managing spider mites is to identify the infestation early. Regular inspection of the leaves can help detect the presence of spider mites. To manage this pest, it is advisable to use predatory mites or beneficial insects like ladybirds to feed on the spider mites. Also, using insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control the pest and prevent it from recurring.
Another common pest that can affect this plant is the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, it is advisable to prune and discard the infected leaves. Also, using insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control the pest and prevent it from recurring.
By following these disease and pest management measures, it is possible to minimize the damage caused by diseases and pests and ensure the healthy growth of Peltigera cinnamomea Goward.
