Knowledgebase

Scale or lichen on holly bush #832670

Asked May 30, 2023, 10:15 AM EDT

I noticed something on the branches of my holly bush and would like to know what it is and how to treat it. Doing some research, I thought it could be scale or lichen but I can't tell. Are you able to tell by looking at these pictures?

Howard County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

This appears to be a lichen, not scale. Lichen is natural and doesn't harm the plant. You can read more about it on our webpage that is linked for further information.

Let us know if you have further questions. 

Emily

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 01, 2023, 10:25 AM EDT

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