Origin
Sticta sylvatica (Hudson) Ach., commonly known as the "Lobed Felt Lichen," is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Stictaceae. This plant is native to European countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland, and Switzerland. It can also be found in North America, specifically in Canada and the United States, particularly in the Pacific Northwest region. This species typically grows on trees, rocks, and soil, particularly in moist and shaded areas in forests.
Common Names
Sticta sylvatica has several common names depending on the region or country it is located. In Europe, this lichen is commonly called the "Forest Felt Lichen," while in North America, it is known as the "Eastern Speckled Shield Lichen" or the "Eastern Lobed Felt Lichen." Additionally, it is sometimes referred to as the "Netted Sticta" due to its web-like or netted appearance.
Uses
Sticta sylvatica has various uses in different fields, particularly in the medical, environmental, and culinary industries. In traditional medicine, it is believed that this lichen can help cure several diseases, including cough, colds, and lung problems. Meanwhile, environmental applications of Sticta sylvatica include its use in monitoring air quality through biomonitoring studies. Also, this lichen can be used as an indicator of forest health and ecosystem disturbances. It is also a popular ingredient in some cuisines, particularly in Sweden, where it is used as a flavoring agent in bread and meat dishes.
General Appearance
Sticta sylvatica is a foliose lichen, meaning that it has a leafy appearance. The thallus, or the body of the lichen, is about 5 to 25 centimeters wide and is made up of lobes or leaf-like structures that are grayish-green in color. The thallus also has several small, cup-shaped apothecia, which are the fruiting structures of the lichen. The underside of the thallus is black and has rhizines, which are root-like structures that anchor the lichen to its substrate. This species' appearance can be easily distinguished from others because of the numerous and circular holes that are visible on the upper surface of the thallus.
Growth Conditions for Sticta sylvatica
Light: Sticta sylvatica typically grows in shaded or partially shaded areas. It is most commonly found growing on trees or rocks in damp and humid environments.
Temperature: The ideal temperature for Sticta sylvatica growth is between 10°C and 25°C. Temperatures above 30°C can negatively impact growth and survival.
Soil: Sticta sylvatica is not a soil-dwelling plant. It mostly grows on trees, rocks or soil crevices. However, it prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral pH with moderate nutrient levels.
Humidity: Sticta sylvatica requires humid environments to grow. It thrives in areas with high humidity ranging between 70% and 100%.
Water: Sticta sylvatica requires moderate to high amounts of water consistently. It prefers damp environments that may be frequently wet, but not waterlogged.
Altitude: Sticta sylvatica can grow at varying altitudes, but it typically grows at elevations between 600 meters and 1500 meters above sea level.
Cultivation methods
Sticta sylvatica is a lichen species that grows in the wild, but it can also be cultivated indoors. To successfully grow this plant, you need to replicate its natural habitat. This plant requires a moist environment with moderate sunlight. To cultivate Sticta sylvatica, start by finding a suitable container – one with good drainage and able to hold moisture adequately. Next, prepare the growing medium by combining peat moss, bark or wood chips, and perlite. Mix the components thoroughly to ensure homogeneity. Plant the lichen on the growing medium and water it. Place the container in a shady area with moderate light and low air movement. Ensure you maintain a consistent moisture level in the growing medium, but avoid overwatering.Watering needs
Sticta sylvatica requires consistent moisture to grow, but it's essential to avoid overwatering. Water the plant when the growing medium starts to dry out. When watering, ensure that the water reaches the bottom of the container to ensure that all the lichen receives water. The frequency of watering varies depending on the environment. In a dry environment, you may need to water frequently, while in a humid environment, you may water less frequently.Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Sticta sylvatica since it can obtain all the nutrients it needs from the surrounding air. However, you can support your plant's growth by occasionally using a foliar spray fertilizer. Use a fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and dilute the solution to prevent overfeeding the plant.Pruning
Sticta sylvatica does not require pruning because it grows slowly and stays at a manageable size. However, if it touches the sides of the container, you can trim the edges to keep it in shape. Always use clean and sharp scissors when pruning the lichen. Remember to keep the growing environment consistent, and your Sticta sylvatica will thrive.Propagation of Sticta sylvatica
Sticta sylvatica can be propagated through both sexual and asexual means. The most common methods of propagation for this plant include fragmentation and division.
Propagation by Fragmentation
Propagation by fragmentation is the simplest and most popular method of propagating Sticta sylvatica. In this method, small pieces of the plant are broken off and cultivated in a suitable environment. The broken off pieces should be carefully selected to ensure that they contain both vegetative and reproductive structures.
The fragments should be moistened and placed in a container with suitable substrate. The container should then be covered with plastic to prevent excessive water loss and maintain humidity. The container should be placed in a shaded location until the fragments begin to develop rhizomes and new leaves.
Once the new plant begins to root, it should be transplanted into a larger container with suitable substrate and a humid environment.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is another popular method for propagating Sticta sylvatica. This method is more commonly used for mature plants or those that have outgrown their container.
To propagate by division, the plant is carefully removed from its container and the root ball is separated into smaller portions. The separated portions should each have a healthy distribution of vegetative and reproductive structures, as well as an adequate amount of roots.
The individual portions should be transplanted into their own containers or their own location in the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Sticta sylvatica (Hudson) Ach.
Sticta sylvatica, commonly known as 'old man's beard,' is a lichenized fungus that grows on trees, rocks, and the ground. Although it is not often affected by pests and diseases, it can be susceptible to several problems under certain conditions.
Common Pests
Sticta sylvatica is not generally prone to pest infestations. However, it may sometimes host insects like bark beetles, spider mites, and aphids. These pests can cause damage to the plant, leading to deterioration of the lichen's overall health and vitality.
If pest infestations are severe, manual removal of the insects or the use of insecticides can help control their populations. However, insecticides can harm beneficial organisms, so it is essential to use them sparingly and only when necessary. Neem oil, insecticidal soap, and horticultural oil are some safer and effective alternatives to harsh chemicals.
Common Diseases
Sticta sylvatica is not generally susceptible to diseases because it does not have roots and does not depend on soil for nutrients. However, it can sometimes be affected by a few problems such as:
Environmental stress
Environmental stress can lead to discoloration or damage of the lichen. This situation can occur due to air pollution, habitat destruction, alterations in climate and weather patterns, or exposure to chemicals. Under such conditions, relocating the plant to a suitable environment or reducing exposure to pollutants can help alleviate the situation.
Fungal infections
Fungal infections can occur in the lichen thalli, which can cause symptoms like discoloration, warping, or detachment from the substrate. These infections can be controlled by removing affected thalli and implementing proper care practices such as providing proper air circulation and avoiding over-watering.
Bacterial infections
Bacterial infections can occur in the plant, leading to the softening and deterioration of the lichen's thalli. Affected plant parts should be removed, and the plant should be given ample time to recover.
Preventative Measures
As with most plants, healthy Sticta sylvatica specimens are more resistant to diseases and pests. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a healthy growing environment by providing appropriate light conditions, humidity levels, and temperature ranges. Pruning dead or damaged branches or twigs can prevent the spread of infections.
Additionally, avoid overwatering, so the lichen is not exposed to excess moisture, which can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi. Providing the plant with proper airflow and sunlight levels can also prevent many pest infestations and diseases. Regular observation and taking care of the plant can prevent potential problems and maintain a healthy Sticta sylvatica specimen.
