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Venturia saliciperda

Fungus Venturia saliciperda

Description

Venturia saliciperda is a pathogenic fungus causing willow scab disease, primarily on species of Salix. It occurs throughout Europe, particularly in humid areas and lowlands. The fungus infects young leaves in spring, producing dark, spreading blotches that eventually lead to defoliation. Later, the infection may progress to leaf stalks and young shoots, causing tissue necrosis and shoot dieback. In severe cases, it spreads to branches, forming pale to greyish cankers that can girdle and kill parts of the crown. The most vulnerable are lower branches, especially in dense stands with poor air circulation. The disease reduces tree vitality, deforms crowns, and significantly diminishes ornamental value, especially in urban plantings and young stands.

Symptom

On infected leaves are black to reddish-brown blotches, often followed by greyish cankers on shoots and branches, leading to dieback.

Tree Species: Willow

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle, Branch

Pest significance: Harmful

Pest Category: Fungi

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes