Bleeding Canker – Phytophthora cactorum – Phytophthora cambivora – Phytophthora gonapodyides – Phytophthora plurivora

Bleeding canker Common name Bleeding canker Causal agent It is caused by several different species of phytophthora and mostly attacks European beech trees. Scientific name Phytophthora cactorum Phytophthora cambivora Phytophthora gonapodyides Phytophthora plurivora Symptoms & Signs It kills the bark and outer tissues of tall trees and shrubs, which causes a dark red color sap to ooze out, hence called bleeding canker. It also exhibits a water-soaked bark which has a distinct color on the inside. The death of the bark may invite several fungi and cause infection of the bark as well. The foliage is underdeveloped, and the leaves may wilt over time. Transmission It transfers to healthy trees when the spores are carried by water, wind, or insects. The phytophthora travels from the soil to the lower bark, where it enters the trees through open wounds. The phytophthora thrives really well in wet, moist conditions. Time of concern Throughout the year Common hosts European beech Maple American beech Birch Magnolia Horse chestnut