Bright red on leaves of river birch - Knowledgebase Question

green bay, wi
Avatar for jeanvog
Question by jeanvog
June 17, 2005
One clump of my river birch has many leaves with a bright red something on them. The leaf almost looks like a coleus leaf. When I rub the red with my finger nail, the red scrapes off. Is this some kind of fungus? Is it hamful to the tree and is there something I should do about it? Thanks for your help.
Jeanne


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Answer from NGA
June 17, 2005
Based on your description I am not certain what is happening to the birch foliage. It is not so uncommon to see a black fungal infection or sooty mold on birch, but I am not finding a "typical" problem with red coloring. You might wish to consult with your county extension and/or local professionally trained and certified nurseryman or a professionally trained and certified arborist to try to obtain a more definite identification of the discoloration. Based on knowing specifically what it is, you will be able to determine what -- if anything -- needs to be done. I'm sorry I can't be more specific for you long distance.

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