Ask Gerry
Trees and Shrubs : Pests and Diseases
See more questions on Pests and Diseases
Fungus on Azara integrifolia
Our AZARA INTEGRIFOLIA small tree has developed a fungus spreading rapidly up the trunk. I enclose photo. Can you identify it for us and suggest if we can possibly cure it? If we lose it, is it safe to re-plant a tree on the same spot as it forms a cover for us?
Thank you,
Clare
ClareandSeymour, Bray, Co Wicklow Posted: 09/07/2012
The disease looks like a fungus called Chondrostereum purpureum, an attacker of cherries, apples, pears and many ornamental trees. It can feed on dead wood and eats into living timber too. It causes silver leaf disease of cherries and apples and it is usually fatal.
There is no remedy or treatment. Wait and see how the tree gets on and replace it if neessary. The spores usually enter through a damaged area. Its spores are ubiquitous and it does not affect the soil for replanting.