Papery Bark

Papery bark Common name Papery bark Sappy bark Causal agent It is a fungal disease that occurs commonly on apple plants, especially the older trees. Scientific name Stereum purpureum Symptoms & Signs The fungus enters the trees from open wounds at the site of pruning. It rots the bark tissues, turning them spongy and discolored. Once the upper layer of the infected bark peels away, the papery decayed tissue is exposed. Dark sap may also ooze from the infected site along with the formation of bracket-like spore-producing structures. The cankers can also girdle the stems and branches, leading to the death of the tree. Transmission The fungal spores can spread the disease to healthy trees through wind, water, or infected soil and tools. Time of concern Early spring to late summer Common hosts Apple Pear