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Sp661 Bacterial Leaf Scorch In Landscape Trees, The University Of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service

Forestry, Trees, and Timber

Bacterial leaf scorch is a chronic disease caused by a bacterium, Xylella fastidiosa, that grows in the xylem of the tree and physically clogs these water-conducting vessels. As the bacterium multiplies, water transport becomes more limited. The tree suffers water stress, especially in mid to late summer, resulting in leaf scorch; a browning or discoloration of the margins of the leaves with interior portions of the leaves near the veins remaining green. The bacterium is spread by leafhoppers, spittlebugs and other xylem-feeding insects.