Origin
Ophioparma lapponica (Rasanen) Hafellner & R. W. Rogers is a lichen species belonging to the family Parmeliaceae. It is commonly found in alpine and arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.
Common Names
The common names of Ophioparma lapponica include Lapp Lichen and Reindeer moss lichen.
Uses
Ophioparma lapponica is an important component of the diet of reindeer and caribou in the Arctic tundra regions. It is also used by indigenous people for various purposes. For example, it is used as insulation material in footwear, clothing, and shelter. It is also used for fire starting and as a wound dressing due to its antibacterial properties.
Appearance
Ophioparma lapponica is a fruticose lichen that typically grows in loose tufts. It has a pale green to grayish-green color and a distinctive hair-like appearance. The plant is composed of slender, bushy branches that are flattened sideways, forming ribbon-like structures. The branches can grow up to 10 cm in length and 1-3 mm in diameter. When wet, the plant becomes soft and pliant, but when dry, it becomes hard and brittle. The undersides of the branches are typically black.
Light Requirements
Ophioparma lapponica prefers moderate light with partial to full shade. It can tolerate direct sunlight if the soil is kept consistently moist.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in cool to temperate climates. The ideal temperature range for Ophioparma lapponica is between 8 to 18 degrees Celsius. It can endure occasional frosts but does not grow well in consistently hot or dry environments.
Soil Requirements
Ophioparma lapponica grows best in moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH from acidic to slightly alkaline. This plant prefers soil that is not tightly compacted and can also grow in rocky crevices.
Cultivation Methods for Ophioparma lapponica
Ophioparma lapponica can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate. If grown outdoors, the plant prefers a cool and dry environment with sufficient sunlight. In contrast, if grown indoors, make sure to place it in an area with bright but indirect sunlight.
The plant is a slow grower, and it takes time to reach its mature size of up to 10cm in diameter. Expect some waiting and patience! Additionally, it is crucial to grow this plant on a suitable substrate, preferably one that mimics its natural habitat. Common substrates include rocks, tree bark, and soil.
Watering Needs for Ophioparma lapponica
The plant prefers low humidity and requires a low amount of water. During cultivation, avoid allowing the substrate to dry out completely, which can cause the plant to die, but also avoid over-watering, which will result in root rot. It is recommended to mist the plant at least twice a week to maintain the necessary humidity levels.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Ophioparma lapponica as it can thrive without it. However, fertilization can help boost the plant's growth. Consider using a low-nitrogen fertilizer, diluted to half strength and apply it two to three times a year, during the growing season.
Pruning
Ophioparma lapponica does not require pruning as it does not grow tall. Instead, it needs grooming to keep it looking attractive and neat. To maintain its shape, remove the dry parts of the thallus periodically with a pair of scissors. If the lichen has grown too large for the pot, transfer it to a larger container, and remove any dead or damaged parts before repotting.
Propagation of Ophioparma lapponica (Rasanen) Hafellner & R. W. Rogers
Ophioparma lapponica (Rasanen) Hafellner & R. W. Rogers is a lichen that grows on trees and rocks in arctic and subarctic regions. The plant mostly reproduces through the process of vegetative propagation. It does not have any flowers or seeds.
Vegetative Propagation
The vegetative propagation method involves fragmentation of the thallus. The thallus fragments are dispersed by wind, water or animals to a new suitable location where they grow into new thalli. The fragments that fall on suitable surfaces such as tree branches or rocks grow into new thalli by attaching their rhizoids firmly onto the surface.
The vegetative propagation method is the most common way the plant reproduces. The new thalli produced through this process look identical to the parent plant and have the same genetic makeup.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a method used to propagate plants that can't be propagated through other means. Although it has not been tried with Ophioparma lapponica, it has been successful in the propagation of other lichens. This technology involves the growth of explants, which are small plant tissue cuttings, on a nutrient-rich medium in a laboratory. This process is carried out in a sterile environment to prevent contamination. It provides a way of mass-producing plants with desirable traits.
To date, vegetative propagation is the most effective method of propagating Ophioparma lapponica.
Disease Management
Ophioparma lapponica is known to be susceptible to certain fungal diseases. One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is known as anthracnose. This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and it can cause severe damage to the plant tissues, including leaves, stems, and fruits if left unmanaged.
To manage anthracnose in Ophioparma lapponica, it is recommended to remove and destroy any infected plant parts. Fungal spores can survive in dead plant tissues, so it is important to avoid composting infected plant debris. Additionally, it is recommended to keep the foliage dry by watering the plant at the base and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to manage anthracnose, but they should be applied according to the product label instructions.
Pest Management
Ophioparma lapponica is generally not susceptible to many pests. However, one pest that can cause damage to the plant is the spider mite. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant juices, which can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth.
To manage spider mites in Ophioparma lapponica, it is recommended to keep the plant well-watered and avoid water-stressed conditions, as spider mites thrive in dry environments. Additionally, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and remove any heavily infested leaves. In severe infestations, insecticidal soaps and oils can be used to manage spider mites. These products should be applied to the plant according to the product label instructions and repeating the application may be necessary to completely eliminate the infestation.
