General Appearance of Umbilicaria pustulata
Umbilicaria pustulata, commonly known as the "pimpled saucer lichen," is a foliose lichen that belongs to the family Umbilicariaceae. The thallus of this lichen species is foliose and is composed of interwoven, irregular, and flattened lobes that range in size from 0.5 to 4 cm in diameter. The upper surface of the thallus is smooth and shiny, while the lower surface is covered with rhizines that enable the plant to attach to its substrate. The thallus color varies from pale blue-green or grayish-green to dark olive-green or blackish-green. The apothecia of the plant are irregular in shape and are the same color as the thallus.
Origin and Distribution of Umbilicaria pustulata
Umbilicaria pustulata is distributed widely in the northern hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia, where it predominantly grows in rocky environments such as cliffs, boulders, and rocky slopes. This lichen species is adapted to cold and humid conditions, and it is commonly found in alpine regions at high altitudes.
Uses of Umbilicaria pustulata
Umbilicaria pustulata has been traditionally used in various medicinal practices. Its extracts have been identified to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which can be used to treat oral infections, gastric ulcers, and skin inflammations. In some cultures, the plant has also been used as a remedy for respiratory infections, stomach disorders, and urinary tract infections. In addition to these medicinal uses, the lichen species has also been used as a source of dye for wool and fabrics due to its green color, which has been used to produce shades of gray and olive.
Light requirements
Umbilicaria pustulata is a shade-loving plant and typically grows in areas with low to moderate light. In their natural habitat, they can often be found growing on rocks, mossy banks, or shaded soil in forests. In cultivation, they should be placed in an area with partial shade, such as under a tree or alongside a shaded fence.
Temperature requirements
Umbilicaria pustulata is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it thrives in cooler temperatures and is commonly found in mountainous regions. In cultivation, they should be planted in areas with moderate temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
Soil requirements
Umbilicaria pustulata is not very demanding in terms of soil requirements. It prefers alkaline to slightly acidic soils, such as those found in rocky and mountainous areas. The plant can also tolerate nutrient-poor soils, which is why it can often be found growing on barren rocks. In cultivation, the soil should be well-draining and moist, but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Umbilicaria pustulata (L.) Hoffm. is commonly found in rocky areas, on soil and bark. Due to its adaptability, it is not difficult to cultivate, but the planting site should match its natural habitat conditions. It grows best in areas with a good supply of fresh air, moderate sunlight, and high humidity. It is recommended to grow the plant on a substrate composed of a mix of soil, perlite, and bark.
Watering Needs
The Umbilicaria pustulata requires little watering to maintain growth. It should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excess moisture can lead to the development of fungal diseases. It is best to use water that is free of chemicals and at room temperature instead of cold water, which can cause shock. Water the plant only when the substrate is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
The Umbilicaria pustulata plant does not need fertilizer as long as it is grown in a suitable substrate. If the substrate is poor in nutrients, it can be fertilized with a diluted solution of a balanced fertilizer. However, it should be done sparingly and not excessively, as the plant has a low nutritional requirement. It is best to use organic fertilizers such as compost or seaweed extract.
Pruning
The Umbilicaria pustulata plant does not require pruning except for the removal of any damaged or dead parts. If the plant becomes too dense, it can be thinned out by removing some of the fronds from the center of the plant. It is best to prune during the spring or summer seasons when the plant is actively growing.
Propagation of Umbilicaria pustulata (L.) Hoffm.
Umbilicaria pustulata (L.) Hoffm. can be propagated through both vegetative and sexual methods.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves the use of fragments of the thallus to grow new individuals. The thallus is the main vegetative body of the lichen, and it can easily fragment from the main body due to environmental factors like wind or rain. The fragments can be attached to a new substrate and grown to form new individuals.
The use of vegetative propagation is common in cases where the population of the species is not healthy or when the existing population is not able to reproduce sexually due to factors like poor environmental conditions or lack of suitable reproductive partners.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation involves the use of spores produced during the sexual reproduction of the lichen. The spores can be dispersed in air and settle on a suitable substrate, where they will germinate and grow to form new individuals.
Umbilicaria pustulata (L.) Hoffm. reproduces sexually through the formation of small cup-like structures known as apothecia, where the spores are produced. These apothecia can be used to obtain spores for propagation. Once the spores are obtained, they can be grown on a suitable substrate in a controlled environment to ensure optimal growth.
Overall, Umbilicaria pustulata (L.) Hoffm. can be propagated through both vegetative and sexual methods to ensure the survival and growth of the species.
Disease Management for Umbilicaria Pustulata
Umbilicaria pustulata is a tough lichen that doesn't suffer from many diseases. However, certain issues can arise; here are the most common diseases and tips for fighting them:
1. Fungal infections:
Fungal infections can occur due to improper growing conditions and poor ventilation. Its symptoms include yellowing or browning of the leaves, and visible mold growth.
For fungal infections, cut away any infected areas of the plant and dispose of them immediately. Reduce humidity and increase ventilation. You can also spray with a fungicide to curb its development.
2. Algal infections:
Algal infections result from excess moisture, causing the plant's leaves to turn black.
To combat algal infections, ensure that the lichen receives good air circulation. Reduce humidity by ensuring well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Treatment with algaecides can also be effective.
Pest Management for Umbilicaria Pustulata
Although Umbilicaria pustulata is not a host of many pests, a few common pests can wreak havoc on it. Here are the most prevalent ones and how to manage them:
1. Scale insects:
Scale insects suck the sap out of the lichen's leaves, leading to yellowing and stunted growth.
You can manage scale insects by using a soft, damp cloth to wipe away any infestation you spot. Also, providing the plant with neem oil application or a gentle insecticidal soap helps to keep away scale insects.
2. Spider Mites:
Spider mites can cause significant harm to Umbilicaria pustulata through tiny perforations in leaves. Symptoms include white or yellow stippling and overall "dusty" appearance.
You can discourage and manage spider mites by maintaining humidity levels between 50-60%. With infestations, consider washing the plant with commercially available insecticidal soap or applying a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water.
