Spiculosa Canker
Poria spiculosa Campd. & Davids
J. D. Solomon, F. I. McCracken, R. L. Anderson, R. Lewis, Jr., F.L. Oliveria, T.H. Filer, and P.J. Barry
Importance – Spiculosa cankers, caused by P. spiculosa, may occur on up to 10 percent of the bottomland red oaks in some areas. The decay column increases about 10 inches (25 cm) in length, yearly.
Identifying the Fungus – Conk of P. spiculosa develop flat under the bark and the brown fruiting surface becomes exposed with maturity following tree death. Chopping into the canker center can identify doubtful infections. The brown fungus material will be exposed if the infection is well established.
Identifying the Injury – Cankers appear as rough, circular swellings with depressed centers. Remains of a branch stub can usually be found in the center of the canker.
Biology – Spores are released from the conks and carried by the wind to branch stubs on healthy trees where infection occurs. Trees respond to invasion of the cambium by developing callous tissue.
Control – Cut diseased trees or deaden them to allow room for healthy growing stock. No suitable treatment is known for high-value trees in urban areas.
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