Viruses of Hosta spp. in USA
Hosta spp. (also called plantain-lilies) are rather commonly used as landscape plants due to their attractive foliage. Virus-like foliar disorders have been observed on Hosta, but so far there had been no publications on Hosta virus diseases in North America. Surveys were carried out in USA on samples of Hosta spp. from commercial greenhouses and nurseries. The following viruses were found: hosta X potexvirus, tomato ringspot nepovirus (EPPO A2 quarantine pest), impatiens necrotic spot tospovirus (potential EPPO A2 quarantine pest) and a tobravirus. In addition, three unidentified isometric viruses were detected by electron microscopy and dsRNA analysis in Hosta plants showing chlorotic ringspots, veinal necrosis and interveinal chlorosis.
Sources
Lockhart, B.E.L.; Currier, S. (1966) Viruses occurring in Hosta spp. in the USA.
Acta Horticulturae, no. 432, 62-67.