First report of oleander leaf scorch (Xylella fastidiosa) in Florida (US)
In spring 1998, oleander plants (Nerium oleander) in Orlando, Florida (US) showed chlorotic mottling along leaf edges becoming necrotic as the disease progressed. Scorched leaves died and prematurely fell. Affected plants showed a general decline and mortality was observed. Analysis (PCR, culturing on periwinkle wilt agar medium) showed the presence of Xylella fastidiosa (EPPO A1 quarantine pest). In this study, Koch’ postulates were also verified. Oleander leaf scorch caused by X. fastidiosa had previously been reported in California and Texas (EPPO RS 99/104), but this is the first report in Florida.
Sources
Wichman, R.L.; Hopkins, D.L. (2000) First report of oleander leaf scorch caused by Xylella fastidiosa in Florida.
Plant Disease, 84(2), p 198.