First report of Puccinia distincta, a new and severe rust of daisies
In October 1996, an abundant rust was observed on daisies (Bellis perennis) growing on the lawn of the tennis club at Belfort (FR). The following year, heavy rust infections were also seen in ornamental beds of cultivated daisies at Exeter University and the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew (GB). Both cultivated and wild daisies are severely affected by this disease. Investigations have shown that the causal agent is Puccinia distincta. It is a short-cycled autoecious rust fungus with aecia and telia on Bellis, which was first described in Australia. So far, it had never been found in Europe. It is suggested that it may have been introduced from Australia, or that it may derive from a related fungus P. obscura (recorded in Europe and North America). The authors noted that the rust is so severe that it seriously impairs the growing of daisies (although they also pointed out with humour that P. distincta may be welcomed by those interested in controlling daisies in their lawns!).
Sources
Weber, R.W.S.; Webster, J.; Wakley, G.E.; Al-Gharabally; D.H. (1998) Puccinia distincta, cause of a devastating rust disease of daisies.
Mycologist, 12(2), 87-90.