Diseases

Leaf spots of Canadian poplar, Carolina poplar

Populus x canadensis Moench

A complex of fungal diseases of Canadian poplar (Populus x canadensis) causing premature defoliation, weakening of trees, and the formation of necrotic lesions on leaves, petioles, and young shoots.

In the reference 5 varieties crop Carolina poplar, where this is mentioned in the description.

The most common leaf spot pathogens for this hybrid are Drepanopeziza brunnea, which causes brown leaf spot, and Sphaerulina musiva, which triggers Septoria leaf spot. Brown leaf spot manifests as small brown necroses with a chlorotic halo that tend to coalesce, whereas Septoria leaf spot is characterized by necrotic spots on leaves and the formation of dangerous ulcers and cankers on stems.

High susceptibility to pathogens is characteristic of many clones, for example 'I-214'. Breeding work with Canadian poplar is focused on the screening and selection of resistant forms, as well as genetic research into the introduction of proteinase inhibitor genes and phytoalexin synthesis genes to enhance disease resistance.

General information about the subject — on the page Leaf spot diseases.

Sources8

Varieties of Carolina poplar 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.