Diseases

Fusarium Wilt of Cockscomb

Celosia argentea L. var. cristata (L.) Kuntze

A systemic disease caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum, manifested by tracheomycosis wilt and necrosis of the vascular bundles. Disease development is triggered by high soil temperatures and damage to the plant's taproot system.

In the reference 6 varieties crop Cockscomb, where this is mentioned in the description.

The primary pathogen of Celosia cristata is Fusarium oxysporum, which causes typical vascular wilt. Fusarium lateritium is also encountered, leading primarily to localized leaf and stem spotting. Infection is characterized by a loss of leaf turgor, yellowing, and a distinct reddish-brown discoloration of the stem vascular tissues, which is visible in cross-section.

The infection develops actively under temperature conditions ranging from 24 to 32°C. The susceptibility of the crop is increased by the structure of the root system: the formation of a taproot makes the plant sensitive to mechanical damage, which serves as an entry point for the fungus. Specific genetic markers for resistance have not been identified, although some modern commercial series possess selectively improved resistance to the pathogen.

General information about the subject — on the page Fusarium wilt and blight.

Sources8

Varieties of Cockscomb mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.