Overview
Leproloma membranaceum, also known as "Tannekrot" or "Candleflame lichen" is a species of lichen found in North America and Eurasia. It is a member of the Teloschistaceae family.
Description
The Leproloma membranaceum is brightly colored with orange or yellow septa surrounding each black pycnidium. Its lobes are flattened, stiff and the outer edge is often crisped. The lichen is thin, sitting flat on the substrate, with marginal lobes that are slightly upturned. Its upper surface is smooth to slightly wrinkled, with a rich orange-red color. The underside of the lichen is pale beige or orange-brown in color with almost invisible black dots, but no rhizines, indicating that the lichen is not attached to the substrate.
Uses
Leproloma membranaceum is an important lichen for reindeer herders and indigenous people in the Arctic, for whom it is a source of food. It can be boiled and mixed with flour to make a type of bread or added to soups and stews. The lichen contains high levels of vitamin C and has a sour taste. Apart from its use as food, Leproloma membranaceum has also been used for medicinal purposes for centuries by various cultures. It is used as a natural remedy for sore throats and rheumatism.
Habitat and Distribution
Leproloma membranaceum can be found in different habitats such as bogs, moist heaths, wet meadows, and occasionally on rotting wood. It is typically found in areas of high humidity and exposed to bright light. It occurs commonly in North America, Europe, and Asia, including Japan and China.
Conservation Status
Leproloma membranaceum is not considered threatened or endangered, although it has been affected by air pollution in urban areas and may decline with global warming.
Light Requirements:
Leproloma membranaceum grows best in shaded areas. It thrives under partial sunlight or in areas that receive dappled sunlight. This plant cannot stand harsh sunlight, which can cause sunburn on its leaves.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant is mostly found in areas with cold climate. Temperature has a significant impact on the growth of the plant. Leproloma membranaceum thrives in temperatures ranging from 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit. It prefers cold temperatures and cannot survive in areas with high temperature or heat.
Soil Requirements:
Leproloma membranaceum grows best in moist and well-drained soils. Acidic soil with pH 4.5-5.5 is ideal for its growth. The plant cannot tolerate standing water, so it is important to ensure proper drainage for the soil. It also grows best in soils with high organic matter content.
Cultivation Methods
Leproloma membranaceum (Dickson) Vainio is a rare, small-sized plant that grows well in rocky habitats and acidic soils. At the time of cultivation, it is crucial to ensure soil quality, temperature, and moisture levels to provide optimal growth conditions for the plant.
Propagation can be done using spores or by transplanting mature plants. When using spores, ensure that they are sown on the surface of damp, acidic soil and enclosed in a humid environment to promote germination. When transplanting, ensure that the roots are not damaged and that the plant is placed in an environment similar to their natural habitat.
Watering Needs
Leproloma membranaceum requires a consistent supply of moisture in the soil as it is sensitive to dry conditions. However, overwatering can cause fungal infections and root rot. Waterlogging should be avoided at all costs.
The best way to water the plant is by checking the soil's dryness every few days and then watering it to maintain moist soil. During dry seasons, when the soil dries out faster, the frequency of watering may be increased.
Fertilization
Leproloma membranaceum has low fertilizer requirements. Fertilizer should only be applied after the plant is established. Organic fertilizers that are rich in nitrogen and phosphorus should be used only in small quantities.
Applying fertilizer in excess can harm the plant, so it is essential to use the correct dosage. It is best to apply fertilizer in the early spring or late autumn to the soil around the plant and not on the leaves or stem.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the plant healthy and in shape. Leproloma membranaceum requires minimal pruning as it is slow-growing. It is essential to remove dead or damaged parts of the plant as soon as possible.
The best time to do this is in the early spring before new growth appears. Avoid heavy pruning as it can harm the plant, which has a low tolerance to defoliation.
Following the above cultivation and care methods, Leproloma membranaceum can provide natural beauty that can mesmerize the eyes with its floral and vegetative displays.
Propagation of Leproloma Membranaceum
Leproloma membranaceum, commonly known as membranous lichen, is a species of lichen that can be propagated through various methods.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is the most common method of propagating Leproloma membranaceum. This is done by taking a small piece of the lichen thallus and growing it in a suitable environment. The growth medium used should be free of contaminants and enriched with essential nutrients necessary for lichen growth.
The propagation is best done in a petri dish, moistened with distilled water, and covered with a lid to prevent moisture loss. The temperature should be controlled, and the petri dish should be kept in a shaded area to avoid direct exposure to light.
Fragmentation
Fragmentation is another common method of propagating Leproloma membranaceum. This method involves taking a fragment of the lichen thallus and allowing it to attach itself to a new substrate. To achieve optimal results, the substrate should be moist but not waterlogged and free of contaminants.
The fragment should be held in place by using a small amount of glue or fastener, allowing it to attach and grow over time. This method can be used to propagate Leproloma membranaceum in the wild, especially in areas where the lichen population is low.
Soredia Propagation
Soredia propagation is another method of propagating Leproloma membranaceum. Soredia are small propagules that develop within the thallus of the lichen. They contain both fungal and algal cells and can propagate the lichen if they land on a suitable substrate.
To propagate Leproloma membranaceum using soredia, a small amount of the lichen thallus containing soredia is taken and placed on a suitable substrate. The substrate should be moist and free of contaminants, and the temperature should be controlled. Over time, the soredia will develop into new lichen thalli.
Overall, Leproloma membranaceum can be propagated through several methods, including vegetative propagation, fragmentation, and soredia propagation. These methods are useful in restoring and conserving lichen populations in the wild.
Disease Management
Leproloma membranaceum (Dickson) Vainio is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant may still experience some problems. Here are some common diseases associated with this plant:
- Leaf spot
- Anthracnose
- Root rot
To manage leaf spot and anthracnose, remove and destroy infected leaves as soon as possible to prevent spores from spreading. Apply a fungicide to help prevent infection. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper drainage. Remove any infected roots and replant in fresh soil.
Pest Management
While Leproloma membranaceum is generally resistant to pests, it may occasionally be attacked by common pests such as:
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Scale insects
To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the pests. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. To manage aphids, try using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. For scale insects, apply a horticultural oil or systemic insecticide.
It's important to note that before applying any chemicals, it is important to carefully read and follow the instructions on the label. Additionally, it is always best to use the least toxic method before resorting to stronger chemicals, to protect both the plant and the environment.
