Anthracnose
MODERATEApiognomonia spp. / Colletotrichum spp.
Overview
A group of fungal diseases causing leaf spots, cankers, and shoot blight on many shade trees. Sycamore, dogwood, maple, and oak are commonly affected. Cool, wet spring weather promotes infection of newly expanding leaves.
- Type
- Fungus
- Severity
- MODERATE
- Source
- USFS
Symptoms
Irregular brown or tan dead areas on leaves often following veins, distorted or curled leaves, premature defoliation, twig dieback and small cankers on branches
Affected Species
Geographic Spread
Treatments
Improve Air Circulation (Pruning)
Selective thinning of branches to improve air circulation and reduce leaf wetness duration. Rake and destroy fallen infected leaves in autumn to reduce overwintering inoculum.
Preventive Fungicide Application
Chlorothalonil or copper-based fungicide applied at bud break and repeated at 7-14 day intervals during wet spring weather. Most important during cool, rainy springs.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Anthracnose. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Broad-spectrum protectant for many fungal leaf and bark diseases.
Preventive spray for needle cast, leaf spots, and blights.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Anthracnose?
A group of fungal diseases causing leaf spots, cankers, and shoot blight on many shade trees. Sycamore, dogwood, maple, and oak are commonly affected. Cool, wet spring weather promotes infection of newly expanding leaves.
What are the symptoms of Anthracnose?
Irregular brown or tan dead areas on leaves often following veins, distorted or curled leaves, premature defoliation, twig dieback and small cankers on branches
Where is Anthracnose currently found?
Anthracnose is currently active in Alabama, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia. It has been reported in 38 total states across the United States.
What plants are affected by Anthracnose?
Anthracnose affects American Sycamore, Flowering Dogwood, Sugar Maple, White Oak, Black Walnut. Susceptibility varies by species.
How do I treat Anthracnose?
Treatment options for Anthracnose include: Improve Air Circulation (Pruning), Preventive Fungicide Application. Treatment approaches may include chemical, biological, cultural, and mechanical methods depending on the severity and context.
Compare with Similar Ailments
Not sure if it's Anthracnose? Compare it side-by-side with similar ailments.