Key Features
- Flat, fan-shaped stems
- Branching from fan-like tip
- Abnormal flower development
Symptoms
Fasciation is caused by a disruption of cells in the growing tip of stems from where growth occurs. The tip is changed from a single point to a flattened or even multiple growing points on the same stem. The overall effect is a fan-shaped stem and distorted floral structures. Fasciation can be naturally occurring or be caused by mechanical injury, insects, viruses, phytoplasmas, bacteria or fungi. There are no visible signs of the cause, making diagnosis difficult. Samples may be sent to a plant disease diagnostic lab for analysis. Some plants have been selected and are valued for their naturally occurring fasciation. Combs of Celosia are one such example, and are spectacular sites in the landscape.
Biology
Unknown, herbicide damage may play a role.
Management Recommendations
Remove affected plant parts or whole plants as symptoms arise. Maintain growing conditions that meet the plants' needs; irrigation, soil fertility, drainage, and air circulation within the canopy are primary concerns. Healthy, vigorously growing plants are better able to resist infections. There are no chemical controls available for control of fasciation.
Effective Pesticides
Pesticides are neither available nor recommended for managing this disease.
Resources
