Overview
small group growing on saw cut oak trunk in upland mesic hardwoods; funnel shaped to rosette growth, with peeling, wavy "petals"; upper surface velvety/finely hairy, concentrically zoned, blues, purplish browns & yellowish browns dominated, whitish at margin in some; lower surface with rounded pores, some becoming elongated & tooth-like, white to pale tan pore surface; rudimentary to no stalk, hairy, attached to wood centrally or laterally
- Type
- Fungus
- Severity
- MODERATE
- Source
- iNaturalist
Symptoms
Geographic Spread
Treatments
Fungicide Application
Apply systemic or contact fungicide at the first sign of infection. Repeat applications may be needed during wet weather. Follow label rates and timing.
Sanitation and Pruning
Remove and destroy all infected leaves, branches, and fallen debris. Improve air circulation by thinning dense canopy growth. Sterilize pruning tools.
Soil and Moisture Management
Ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and apply mulch to reduce soil splash. Many fungal pathogens thrive in persistently wet conditions.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing turkey-tail. 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 turkey-tail?
small group growing on saw cut oak trunk in upland mesic hardwoods; funnel shaped to rosette growth, with peeling, wavy "petals"; upper surface velvety/finely hairy, concentrically zoned, blues, purplish browns & yellowish browns dominated, whitish at margin in some; lower surface with rounded pores, some becoming elongated & tooth-like, white to pale tan pore surface; rudimentary to no stalk, hairy, attached to wood centrally or laterally
What are the symptoms of turkey-tail?
Where is turkey-tail currently found?
turkey-tail is currently active in Delaware, Ohio, New Jersey, Missouri, Washington, California, Pennsylvania, Georgia, New York, Maryland, Illinois, Massachusetts, Indiana, Maine, Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Minnesota, Virginia, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Florida, Oregon, Idaho, Iowa, Texas. It has been reported in 28 total states across the United States.
How do I treat turkey-tail?
Treatment options for turkey-tail include: Fungicide Application, Sanitation and Pruning, Soil and Moisture Management. Treatment approaches may include chemical, biological, cultural, and mechanical methods depending on the severity and context.