Overview
Peltula bolanderi (Tuck.) Wetmore is a type of lichen that belongs to the Peltulaceae family. It is found in North America, specifically in western North America, from the Pacific Northwest of Canada to California.
Common Names
Peltula bolanderi is commonly known as Bolander's pelt lichen or shield lichen.
Appearance
Peltula bolanderi has a thallus that is bright green to yellow-green. It is lobed with an irregular shape that resembles a shield or a puck. The lobe margin can be slightly raised, giving a slightly undulating uneven edge, or can appear lacerate or nearly smooth with a slightly incised margin, depending on the maturity of the thallus.
The thallus surface is smooth when young and can become somewhat warty with age. The apothecia or fruiting bodies are present and are a deep orange color, with shallow cups that are abundant over the thallus surface. The colour of both the thallus and apothecia change from green to orange or purple in the presence of UV-exposure.
Uses
Peltula bolanderi is an important indicator of lichen communities that occur in the western United States and Canada. Since it is sensitive to air pollution, it is a useful species to monitor changes in air quality.
Traditional ecological knowledge of indigenous communities have been recorded of using Peltula spp. such as P. collabens as antiseptic bandages in treating wounds. However, there are no recorded uses specifically of P. bolanderi.
Light Requirements
Peltula bolanderi prefers to grow in a shaded environment with a moderate amount of indirect sunlight. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight, and for that reason, it often grows in the understory of trees or shrubs. They can, however, handle low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The suitable growth temperature for Peltula bolanderi is between 10°C to 20°C, and it can withstand temperatures as low as -10°C. These plants cannot tolerate extreme heat; therefore, their growth will cease if the temperature rises above 25°C.
Soil Requirements
The ideal growing medium for Peltula bolanderi is moist soil that is rich in organic matter. This species can tolerate acidic and alkaline soil, as long as the soil is well-draining. In the wild, you will mostly find them growing on rocks or gravelly soils that are moist. Therefore, it's important that the soil doesn't get too dry; it needs to be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation of Peltula Bolanderi
Peltula Bolanderi is a type of lichen that can be grown indoors and outdoors. It can be cultivated on moist or dry surfaces, such as soil, rocks, or tree trunks. However, it prefers to grow under partial to full shade, and in areas with high humidity and good air circulation.
Watering Needs of Peltula Bolanderi
Watering is important in the cultivation of Peltula Bolanderi. This plant requires frequent misting or spraying to maintain its high humidity needs. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can cause root rot. The soil should be kept lightly moist at all times.
Fertilization of Peltula Bolanderi
Peltula Bolanderi does not require fertilization. It obtains all its nutrients from the air and rainwater. It is important to avoid using any chemicals or insecticides on the plant, as they can harm its delicate structure.
Pruning of Peltula Bolanderi
Peltula Bolanderi does not require pruning, as it grows flat and close to the surface it is attached to. However, it is important to remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant immediately to prevent further damage. It is also important to periodically clean the plant's surface to remove any dust or debris.
Propagation of Peltula Bolanderi
Peltula bolanderi (Tuck.) Wetmore, commonly known as Bolander's pelt lichen, is a slow-growing lichen that produces small, lobed, and flattened thalli that vary from a greenish-gray to brownish color. Propagation of this plant can be done through vegetative and asexual means.
Vegative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Peltula bolanderi involves fragmentation of the thallus. The thalli can be broken off into smaller pieces, which can then be attached to another surface to establish a new colony. This method is best done during the wet season when the thalli are more pliable.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Peltula bolanderi is accomplished through soredia and isidia. Soredia are small, powdery, and asexual reproductive structures that contain both the algal and fungal symbionts. Isidia are irregular outgrowths of the thallus that break off to form new colonies. These structures can be transported by wind or water and establish themselves in new locations.
Both methods of propagation are important for the establishment and survival of Peltula bolanderi. However, since this lichen is slow-growing, it is important to ensure that the parent colony is undisturbed to allow for the regeneration of lost tissue.
Disease and Pest Management for Peltula bolanderi (Tuck.) Wetmore
Peltula bolanderi (Tuck.) Wetmore is a small, leafy liverwort commonly found in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. While it is a hardy plant, it is still susceptible to a few diseases and pests that can cause significant damage if left unmanaged.
Common Diseases
One common disease that affects Peltula bolanderi is anthracnose, caused by the fungi Colletotrichum trichellum. This disease shows up as brown or black spots on the leaves and can eventually cause them to fall off. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy any affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant.
Another disease that can plague Peltula bolanderi is Damping-off, caused by the fungus Pythium debaryanum. This disease can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To prevent damping-off, make sure your soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If the plant is already infected, remove and destroy any affected parts and treat the soil with a fungicide.
Common Pests
One pest that can cause damage to Peltula bolanderi is spider mites. These tiny pests feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. To prevent spider mites, regularly mist the plant and keep the leaves clean and dust-free. If you already have an infestation, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Another pest that can be problematic for Peltula bolanderi is slugs and snails. These mollusks can feed on the leaves and leave holes and slime trails behind. To prevent slugs and snails, remove any debris or decaying vegetation from around the base of the plant and use copper tape or a barrier of diatomaceous earth around the pot to deter them. If you already have a problem, handpick the slugs and snails off the plant and apply a slug bait or repellent.
By being vigilant and proactive about disease and pest management, you can help ensure that your Peltula bolanderi (Tuck.) Wetmore plant stays healthy and strong.
