Isolated finding of Phytophthora ramorum on Quercus falcata in United Kingdom
The NPPO of United Kingdom informed the EPPO Secretariat that Phytophthora ramorum (EPPO Alert List) has been found on a single tree of the introduced American Quercus falcata (Southern red oak) in Sussex. The infected tree was growing in a large private estate which is periodically open to the public, in an area where P. ramorum had previously and repeatedly been found on rhododendrons, Kalmia and Pieris. The infected tree is around 100 years old. Q. falcata is occasionally planted in United Kingdom as a specimen tree. Phytosanitary action is now being considered, but is likely to include felling and destruction of the tree and a continuation of the intensive survey of all trees and plants growing at this site and its surroundings. No material will be allowed to leave the premises.
EPPO note: It must be stressed that this is an isolated finding, made on a American oak species and that, so far, P. ramorum has never been found on European oak species.
Sources
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NPPO of United Kingdom, 2003-11.
Forestry Commission and DEFRA News Release of 2003-11-05. First infected oak found in Sussex. http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2003/031105b.htm
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