Origin
Schismatomma glaucescens (Nyl. ex Willey) R. C. Harris is a lichen species in the Parmeliaceae family. It is commonly found in North America, growing on trees, especially on bark.
Common Names
Schismatomma glaucescens is commonly known as Cracked Cap Lichen or Blue-grey Lichen due to its uniquely brick-wall-like appearance and blue-grey coloration.
Uses
While Schismatomma glaucescens has no known medicinal uses, it is an indicator of good air quality. This lichen species absorbs pollutants from the surrounding air, making it a valuable bio-indicator for monitoring air quality in urban areas. Additionally, it plays a role in the ecosystem by providing food and shelter for a variety of organisms, including insects, birds, and mammals.
General Appearance
Schismatomma glaucescens forms a thin crust that looks like a brick wall or cracked cap. It has a blue-grey or greenish-grey coloration with a rough texture. Its thallus grows to about 2-6 cm in diameter, and it has a distinct pale yellow-green medulla. The lichen reproduces through soredia, small clusters of fungal spores surrounded by algal cells that can disperse to form new colonies.
Light Requirements
Schismatomma glaucescens is a lichenized fungus that requires medium to high levels of light to grow. This plant usually grows on tree bark, rocks, and soil in open, sunny areas. It can tolerate a little shade, but it will grow best in well-lit areas.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in moderate to cool temperatures. The temperature range for Schismatomma glaucescens is between 5-25°C. It can tolerate slightly higher temperatures but will not grow well in extremely hot conditions.
Soil Requirements
Schismatomma glaucescens is a lichenized fungus that doesn't require soil for growth. Instead, it grows on tree bark and rocks. The bark must be free of any moss or lichen as the plant cannot grow on a substrate that is already colonized. The substrate must also be able to retain some moisture but not become completely waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Schismatomma glaucescens is a lichen plant that can be cultivated by attaching it to a substrate such as a rock or tree bark. To ensure a successful attachment, it is advisable to select a healthy plant specimen that is free from any diseases or pest infestations. The plant should be attached to the substrate using a non-toxic glue or simply by tying it onto the appropriate surface. Ideally, the plant should be located in an area with moderate sunlight and good air circulation to promote healthy growth.
Watering Needs
Schismatomma glaucescens is quite resistant to water scarcity and can tolerate periods of drought. However, it is crucial to ensure that the plant is watered regularly, especially during the summer months to prevent excessive drying. The plant can absorb water from the air, through the pores on its surface. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the humidity levels in the surrounding environment are optimal. It’s recommended to mist the plant daily, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
Lichens like Schismatomma glaucescens do not require any fertilization. This is because they are self-sufficient and do not have roots. The plant obtains all the necessary nutrients from the air and rainwater through their surfaces. Fertilizers can damage lichen because they have a unique relationship with photosynthetic cyanobacteria and require no extra nutrients to survive.
Pruning
Schismatomma glaucescens does not require any pruning as it grows slowly and maintains its form without intervention. However, in the case of overgrowth, it can be trimmed using clean and sharp scissors to remove excess growth. It’s important to note that lichens are more vulnerable when they are trimmed since the thallus needs to regenerate before it gains any advantages. Therefore, avoid excessive pruning, and only trim when necessary.
Propagation of Schismatomma glaucescens
Schismatomma glaucescens, commonly known as rock greenshield lichen, is a member of the lichen family. It can be found growing on rocks, bark, and soil in various habitats across North America. Propagation of Schismatomma glaucescens is typically achieved through vegetative means by propagating the thallus.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Schismatomma glaucescens involves taking a piece of the thallus and using it to grow a new lichen. The easiest method is to use a small rock or piece of bark that already has a mature lichen growing on it and to break a small piece of the lichen off. This piece can then be placed on a new rock or piece of bark and secured with a small amount of adhesive. Ensure the new substrate is placed in an area with similar environmental conditions to where the original lichen was found. Over time, the broken piece will establish itself and grow into a new lichen.
Alternatively, Schismatomma glaucescens can also be propagated by breaking apart the thallus and scattering the pieces on a new substrate. This method is more time-consuming and requires more patience as the pieces will take longer to establish themselves and grow into mature lichens.
Vegetative propagation of Schismatomma glaucescens can be done throughout the year as long as the environmental conditions are appropriate for lichen growth. This includes ideal temperatures, light, and moisture levels.
Disease Management
Schismatomma glaucescens is a lichen, which means it is generally resistant to diseases. However, it may develop fungal and bacterial infections if growing conditions are suboptimal or if it is already weak due to other factors. One common disease that affects lichens is lichenicolous fungi. These fungi are parasitic and attack the lichen thalli. To prevent the spread of these fungi, it is best to maintain good cultural practices. This includes not overcrowding the plant, providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management
Similar to diseases, Schismatomma glaucescens is generally not affected by pests. However, it may fall prey to a few insects and mites. One common pest that can attack lichens is the scale insect. These insects attach themselves to the lichen thalli and suck sap from it, leading to discoloration and deformation. Another pest that might affect the lichen is mites. Mites cause mottled yellow or brown spots on the surface of the lichen. To prevent pest infestations, it is necessary to provide good cultural conditions such as not over-fertilizing, avoiding overhead watering and regular pruning of infected parts. Additionally, natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to keep insect populations under control.
