Magnolia Bush - Ask Extension
Why did the woody part of the plant turn black with gray patches on it, as well?
Knowledgebase
Magnolia Bush #865535
Asked April 23, 2024, 8:04 AM EDT
Why did the woody part of the plant turn black with gray patches on it, as well?
Shiawassee County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Debra -
I think I've identified the black stuff as a fungus called either Exidia glandulosa or Exidia nigricans. It is a Jelly Fungus, which is a wood-rotting fungus. Since that is the case, I have to ask if your magnolia is showing any sign of life this spring so far? I believe this fungus is found on dead branches.
I think I've identified the black stuff as a fungus called either Exidia glandulosa or Exidia nigricans. It is a Jelly Fungus, which is a wood-rotting fungus. Since that is the case, I have to ask if your magnolia is showing any sign of life this spring so far? I believe this fungus is found on dead branches.
Yes. It's all budded out. Is there a treatment for it?
Hi Debra -
How old is this Magnolia? A young or old plant? I can't tell from these pictures where it is planted. Could the black and gray parts come from too little light? Too much water? I can't tell if the trouble is cultural or situational or something else.
I do know that magnolias attract a type of scale that can overtake them. I don't see any adult scale in your photos, however.
I would cut the dead parts of this magnolia off. Also, look for "bumps" on the limbs that you can scrape off with your fingernail. Adult female scale look like bumps on the bark. The treatment for Scale is spraying with horticultural or Neem oil.
Good luck.
How old is this Magnolia? A young or old plant? I can't tell from these pictures where it is planted. Could the black and gray parts come from too little light? Too much water? I can't tell if the trouble is cultural or situational or something else.
I do know that magnolias attract a type of scale that can overtake them. I don't see any adult scale in your photos, however.
I would cut the dead parts of this magnolia off. Also, look for "bumps" on the limbs that you can scrape off with your fingernail. Adult female scale look like bumps on the bark. The treatment for Scale is spraying with horticultural or Neem oil.
Good luck.
