Pacific Wax Myrtle fungus?
Hi, I planted a Pacific Wax Myrtle (Myrica californica) this fall, and I’m noticing some brownish-reddish spots and rust coloration appearing on the leaves. Mostly on new growth. Reading up on this species, I’m guessing it might be a type of fungus (anthracnose? leaf blight?). Ive read terrible things about phytophthora on wax myrtles in Oregon. I’m hoping I can catch/treat whatever this is early! I am in N Portland, St John’s. The shrub is in a south-facing part sun location. I have more photos available.
Multnomah County Oregon
3 Responses
Thank you for your question. The only disease this species is known to contract in the Pacific Northwest is leaf blight (which this not appear to be): https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/california-wax-myrtle-morella-californica-leaf-blight Since our local Extension offices are closed to the public, and we have no staff to examine the leaves, I suggest you send a sample to the OSU Plant Clinic for identification: https://bpp.oregonstate.edu/plant-clinic I hope this is helpful. Good luck!
Thank you for the quick response!! I will mail out a sample to them on Monday!
Great! I hope it is nothing serious!