Knowledgebase
Fasciation on large plot of digitalis #750860
Asked May 19, 2021, 12:30 PM EDT
I have a lovely crop of digitalis.. largely self sown by stalks I threw over a fence two years ago. This year I noticed a freakish growth pattern that appears to be fasciation on the stalks of some of the older plants. See two photos below. I have cut out a bunch of affected stalks, but am wondering if my entire plot is doomed. Thanks for your insights.
Anne Arundel County Maryland
Expert Response
Great photos!
Fasciation is caused by a slew of organisms, most probably mycoplasma. But could be virus, bacteria, fungi or even genetics. It is a sublethal infection and can even be considered desirable for ornamentals, such as the fantail pussy willow, especially in floral arrangements.
If you don't like it, simply pull up infected plants and dispose of them off-site. This leaves only healthy plants to reseed themselves.
Ellen
You don't need to pull them up; they shouldn't resprout. But, since insects do spread the diseases, cutting down to the base was a good move if you don't want the fasciation to spread.
Ellen
You're welcome.
