Lecidella Lichen: A Tiny Marvel You Can’t Grow (But Should Appreciate!)
Meet Lecidella subauriculata, commonly known as lecidella lichen – a fascinating little organism that’s probably already living in your garden without you even knowing it! Unlike the plants we typically discuss on this blog, this North American native isn’t something you can plant or cultivate, but it’s definitely worth understanding and appreciating.
What Exactly Is a Lecidella Lichen?
Here’s where things get interesting: lichens aren’t actually plants at all! Lecidella subauriculata is what scientists call a composite organism – it’s actually a partnership between a fungus and algae (or sometimes cyanobacteria) living together in perfect harmony. Think of it as nature’s ultimate roommate situation, where both partners benefit from the arrangement.
This particular lichen species is native to North America, though the exact geographic distribution isn’t well documented in readily available sources. You might also see it referred to by its scientific synonym, Lecidea subauriculata de Lesd., in older botanical references.
Is Lecidella Lichen Beneficial to Your Garden?
Absolutely! While you can’t plant lecidella lichen, having it show up naturally in your garden is actually a wonderful sign. Here’s why you should be happy to spot this tiny marvel:
- Air quality indicator: Lichens are incredibly sensitive to air pollution, so their presence suggests your garden has relatively clean air
- Ecosystem health sign: A diverse lichen community indicates a balanced, healthy environment
- Minimal impact: Unlike some organisms, lichens don’t harm the surfaces they grow on – they’re just along for the ride
- Natural beauty: These tiny organisms add subtle texture and interest to tree bark, rocks, and other surfaces
How to Identify Lecidella Lichen
Spotting lecidella lichen requires a bit of detective work since these organisms are quite small. While specific identification details for Lecidella subauriculata are limited in accessible literature, lichens in the Lecidella genus typically:
- Form small, crusty patches on surfaces
- Appear as thin, flat growths that seem painted onto bark or rock
- Display subtle colors ranging from whitish to grayish
- Prefer growing on tree bark, particularly in areas with good air circulation
For precise identification, you’d need to examine the lichen’s reproductive structures under magnification – definitely a job for the specialists!
Creating a Lichen-Friendly Garden
While you can’t plant lecidella lichen, you can certainly create conditions that welcome it and its lichen relatives:
- Avoid chemical treatments: Skip the fungicides and harsh chemicals that can harm these sensitive organisms
- Maintain diverse surfaces: Keep some natural bark, rocks, or weathered wood in your garden
- Ensure good air circulation: Lichens appreciate areas that aren’t too enclosed or stagnant
- Be patient: Lichens grow incredibly slowly, so it may take years for them to establish
The Bottom Line
Lecidella subauriculata might not be the showstopper perennial you can order from a catalog, but it’s a fascinating native organism that adds to your garden’s biodiversity in its own quiet way. Consider yourself lucky if you spot any lichens in your space – they’re like tiny certificates of environmental health, proving that your garden is a place where even the most sensitive organisms can thrive.
Next time you’re wandering through your garden, take a moment to look closely at tree bark and weathered surfaces. You might just discover a whole miniature world of lichens, including perhaps our friend Lecidella subauriculata, quietly going about their ancient business of turning sunlight and minerals into life.
