General Appearance
Umbilicaria deusta (L.) Baumg. is a lichen, consisting of a fungal partner and a photosynthetic partner. The lichen has a relatively flat body with a rosette-like growth habit. The thallus is usually a few centimeters in length and has a dark brown to black upper surface, with a yellow-orange lower surface.
Origin and Common Names
Umbilicaria deusta (L.) Baumg. is a circumpolar species found in Europe, Asia, North America, and the Antarctic. In Europe, it is commonly known as Black Rock Lichen while in North America it is known as Coal Fired Rock Tripe and in Japan it is known as Kuroiwa-gaeru.
Uses
Umbilicaria deusta (L.) Baumg. has been used in traditional medicine. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat a range of conditions, including arthritis, gastritis, and respiratory ailments. Additionally, it has been used as a source of natural dyes, with the black upper surface yielding a dark gray to black color.
Growth Conditions for Umbilicaria deusta (L.) Baumg.
Umbilicaria deusta (L.) Baumg., commonly referred to as scorched rock lichen, is a type of lichen that belongs to the family Umbilicariaceae. It can typically be found growing on rocks, boulders, and cliffs in various regions around the world.
Light Requirements
Umbilicaria deusta prefers a shady environment with low to moderate light intensity. It grows best in places where it can receive some light, but not direct sunlight. This means that it is typically found growing in the shade of rocks or vegetation.
Temperature Requirements
Scorched rock lichen is well-adapted to harsh environmental conditions and can withstand extreme temperature fluctuations. It can grow in areas with average temperatures ranging between -20 to 20°C (4 to 68°F).
Soil Requirements
Umbilicaria deusta does not require soil to grow. Instead, it obtains its nutrients and moisture from the air. It is commonly found growing on rocks that contain small amounts of mineral dust, which serves as a source of nutrients for the lichen.
The presence of other environmental factors such as humidity and air quality can also influence the growth of scorched rock lichen. In areas with high humidity and low air pollution, it is likely to grow more successfully.
Cultivation methods for Umbilicaria deusta
Umbilicaria deusta is a slow-growing lichen, but can be successfully cultivated with proper care and attention. The ideal growing conditions include bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining, acidic soil. It is important to note that Umbilicaria deusta is not a true plant, but a lichenized fungus. Therefore, it cannot be propagated through traditional plant propagation methods such as stem cuttings or seedlings. Instead, it can be transplanted onto suitable substrates such as rocks or bark.
Watering needs for Umbilicaria deusta
Umbilicaria deusta is a drought-tolerant lichen and should not be overwatered, as excess moisture can promote fungal growth and lead to rot. However, it does require some moisture to thrive. When it is first transplanted, misting the lichen occasionally can help it establish itself on the new substrate. Afterward, rainfall or occasional watering may be needed during periods of drought. A good rule of thumb is to water the lichen when the substrate feels mostly dry to the touch.
Fertilization for Umbilicaria deusta
Umbilicaria deusta does not require any fertilization, as it obtains all necessary nutrients through its association with photosynthetic algae. In fact, fertilization can be harmful to the lichen and should be avoided. If the substrate appears depleted, it may be helpful to add a thin layer of organic matter, such as leaf litter or wood chips, to provide additional nutrients.
Pruning for Umbilicaria deusta
Unlike traditional plants, Umbilicaria deusta does not require regular pruning to maintain its shape or health. However, it is important to remove any debris or dead material that accumulates on top of the lichen, as this can restrict air and moisture flow.
Propagation of Umbilicaria deusta (L.) Baumg.
Umbilicaria deusta (L.) Baumg., commonly known as the Black rock lichen, is a slow-growing lichen that can be propagated by using different methods such as fragmentation, vegetative propagation, and by sowing spores.
Fragmentation Propagation
Fragmentation propagation involves taking the fragmented part of the lichen and placing it in a suitable environment where it can grow further. This method is useful for small-scale propagation, and the chances of successful propagation are high. The following steps should be carried out:
- Choose healthy, mature lichens for propagation
- Remove a small section of the lichen from the main thallus
- Place the lichen in a suitable environment, such as a substrate with adequate moisture and light
- Maintain suitable environmental conditions
- The lichen will grow and form a new thallus
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves using vegetative fragments of the lichen to grow a new thallus. This method results in colonies of lichens, with each colony genetically identical to its parent. The following steps should be carried out:
- Choose healthy, mature lichen for propagation
- Remove small pieces of the lichen thallus and place them on suitable substrates with adequate moisture and light
- Ensure that the fragments are in contact with the substrate and the environment has adequate moisture
- Maintain suitable environmental conditions
- The lichen will grow and form a new thallus
Sowing Spores
Propagation of Umbilicaria deusta can also be done by sowing spores, which can result in the formation of new thalli. This method is useful for large-scale propagation. The following steps should be carried out:
- Collect mature apothecia (fruiting bodies) from lichens
- Open the apothecia and gently tap them to release the spores
- Sow the spores on suitable substrates with adequate moisture and light
- Ensure that the spores are in contact with the substrate and the environment has adequate moisture
- Maintain suitable environmental conditions
- The spores will germinate and grow, forming new thalli
The propagation methods mentioned above are adequate for propagating Umbilicaria deusta and can be used depending on the available resources and the desired results.
Disease and Pest Management for Umbilicaria deusta (L.) Baumg.
Umbilicaria deusta is a lichen that grows on trees, rocks, and soil in cold climates. Although it is generally hardy and pest-resistant, there are a few diseases and pests that can affect the plant. Here are some common problems and their management:
Diseases
1. Fungal Infections: Umbilicaria deusta can be affected by several fungal pathogens that cause leaf and root rot infections. These infections can weaken the plant and cause significant damage if left untreated. It is essential to inspect the plant regularly to identify the signs of fungal infections, including brown, water-soaked spots or discoloration on the leaves or stems.
Management: Improve plant air circulation and avoid overcrowding. Remove the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them safely. Use a suitable fungicide to control the spread of the fungal infection.
Pests
1. Scale Insects: Scale insects are common pests that can affect Umbilicaria deusta. These small, oval-shaped insects attach themselves to the plant's leaves and secrete a waxy covering, which can make them hard to identify.
Management: Use a soft-bristled brush or a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove the scale. Neem oil can also be applied to deter the scale from returning.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites belong to the arachnid family and can cause damage to Umbilicaria deusta by piercing the plant's leaves and sucking out their sap.
Management: Control spider mites by spraying the plant with a high-pressure water hose, insecticidal soap, or neem oil. Make sure to treat both the top and bottom of the leaves thoroughly.
Regularly monitoring the plant for signs of diseases and pests is paramount to maintain its good health. Also, ensure the plant has appropriate growing conditions, including the right amount of sunlight, adequate water, and good drainage. By applying the management techniques outlined above, your Umbilicaria deusta plant will grow healthy and disease-free.
