Vermilacinia Procera (Bowler & Rundel) Spjut - Overview
Vermilacinia Procera, commonly known as ghost lichen, is a type of lichen that belongs to the Lecanoraceae family. It is a slow-growing, epiphytic species of lichen that can be found in arid and semi-arid regions of western North America, including California, Arizona, and Nevada.
General Appearance
Vermilacinia Procera appears as a pale gray to creamy white foliose lichen with lobed margins, measuring up to 15 centimeters in diameter, and having a thin, papery texture. The lichen's thallus is flat and leafy, with a pseudocyphellar cortex. At times, it appears like dusty grey-green in color and emits a strong odor after rainfall.
Common Names
Vermilacinia Procera is commonly known as ghost lichen, parchment lichen, or long-laced lichen. The name ghost lichen denotes its pale color, which resembles the eerie white, transparent appearance of a ghost.
Uses
Vermilacinia Procera, like all other types of lichen, has numerous medicinal, ecological, cultural, and environmental applications. It serves as an indicator of sunlight and moisture availability in its habitat, helps to support plant and animal communities, and, in some cases, serve as food for wildlife. Additionally, Native American tribes use the lichen as a traditional remedy to treat various ailments such as cold, flu, and tonsillitis.
However, it is always recommended to use lichens under the guidance of a knowledgeable practitioner and acquire them from a reliable and sustainable source.
Light Requirements
Vermilacinia procera requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may cause slower growth and weaker health than plants grown in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
Vermilacinia procera can adapt to a wide range of temperatures. It has been observed to grow in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 100°F. However, it thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F.
Soil Requirements
Vermilacinia procera thrives in well-draining soils that are rocky or sandy. It can tolerate soils that are nutrient-poor and have a high salinity level, as it is often found growing in deserts and arid environments. The plant prefers a pH level between 7.0 and 8.5, which is slightly alkaline.
Cultivation methods for Vermilacinia procera
Vermilacinia procera is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant that is easy to cultivate. It thrives in hot and dry conditions and can be grown in various types of soil, ranging from sandy soil to rocky soil. It is important to select well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging.
Propagation of Vermilacinia procera can be achieved through the collection of seeds or by stem cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken during the growing season and can be rooted in moist sand soil. After rooting, the cuttings can be transplanted into separate pots or directly into the garden.
Watering needs for Vermilacinia procera
As a drought-tolerant plant, Vermilacinia procera doesn't require much water. In fact, it is best to let the soil fully dry out before watering. However, as with any plant, regular watering is essential during the establishment phase. After establishment, Vermilacinia procera requires occasional watering, especially during prolonged periods of drought. Overwatering can lead to root rot and should be avoided.
Fertilization of Vermilacinia procera
While Vermilacinia procera doesn't require much fertilizer, a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to encourage growth and flowering. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced drought tolerance.
Pruning Vermilacinia procera
As Vermilacinia procera is a slow-growing plant, it doesn't require pruning in the traditional sense. However, dead or damaged branches can be pruned at any time to maintain the plant's appearance and health. The best time to prune is during the dormant season, as this reduces the risk of infection and damage to the plant.
Propagation of Vermilacinia procera
Vermilacinia procera can be propagated through different methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Vermilacinia procera can be sown directly into the ground or in propagation trays filled with well-draining soil mix. The ideal time for sowing seeds is in the fall or early spring when the temperature is warm. The seeds need to be covered 1/8 inch deep with the soil mix and kept moist. It usually takes around 1-2 weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings of Vermilacinia procera can be taken from established plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be made from the healthy stem and about 4-6 inches long. The cuttings need to be dried for 1-2 days and then planted in well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist for several weeks until new growth appears. This method is best done during the spring and summer months.
Division Propagation
Vermilacinia procera can be propagated through division, especially when the plant grows too big for its pot or location. Carefully remove the plant from the soil and gently separate the root mass into smaller sections. Each section should have a few leaves and healthy roots. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil mix and keep moist for several weeks to encourage new growth.
Disease Management
Vermilacinia procera is a resilient plant that is generally not prone to many diseases. However, it can occasionally suffer from some fungal infections such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Powdery mildew is caused by a fungus that leaves a white powdery residue on the leaves, while leaf spot causes brown spots to appear on the leaves.
The best way to manage powdery mildew is to control humidity and ensure the plant has adequate ventilation. Removing any infected parts of the plant and using a fungicide spray can also be effective in controlling the disease. For leaf spot, the infected leaves should be immediately removed and destroyed. Applying a copper-based fungicide spray can also be helpful in controlling the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Vermilacinia procera is not generally susceptible to many pests. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die. Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that form cotton-like masses on the plant and suck sap from the leaves.
To manage spider mites, regular monitoring and early intervention are essential. High-pressure water sprays can help remove the mites from the leaves, and insecticidal soap can be used for larger infestations. For mealybugs, the affected areas should be immediately removed and destroyed. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be helpful in controlling the spread of the infestation.
