ISHS Acta Horticulturae 545: V International Protea Research Symposium
SCAB DISEASE OF PROTEACEAE – A REVIEW |
| Authors: | L. Swart, P.W. Crous |
| Keywords: | corky bark, Elsinoë, fungal pathogens, Leucospermum, Protea |
| Abstract:
Elsinoë spp. cause scab disease of South African Proteaceae such as Leucadendron, Leucospermum, Mimetes, Protea and Serruria, as well as on the Australian genus Banksia. In South Africa, this disease has been observed on Leucadendron, Leucospermum, Protea and Serruria. In Australia, scab disease occurs on all the genera cited above. In California and Zimbabwe, scab disease has been observed on Leucospermum and Protea, while in Hawaii, Leucospermum has been observed to be susceptible. Five distinct species of Elsinoë have thus far been identified on Proteaceae. Two species occur on Protea, namely one in South Africa, and a second in Zimbabwe. A further two species occur on Banksia in Australia. Isolates from Leucadendron, Leucospermum and Serruria represent the same species in all of the host countries. For this species, scab-like lesions develop on stems and leaves of young growth. In many cases, twisting of the stems results, rendering the cut-flower unmarketable. Severe infections can kill the leaves and stems of young growth flushes of Protea spp., resulting in die-back of the young shoot. Differences in susceptibility have been observed between the different Leucospermum cultivars in South Africa, but no tolerance in the genus Protea has been observed in Zimbabwe. Moist conditions are a prerequisite for infection to take place, while moderate temperatures are favourable for disease development. Chemical control of the disease is poor, and only effective when applied preventatively. Control of scab disease is based on good sanitation, cultural practices and resistant host material. | |
Download Adobe Acrobat Reader (free software to read PDF files) | |
