Chondrostereum purpureum

Chondrostereum purpureum on wood

Chondrostereum purpureum is a species of fungus in the family Stereaceae. It is commonly known as the silver leaf fungus due to its characteristic appearance. This fungus is a plant pathogen that primarily affects trees, causing a disease known as silver leaf disease.

Description

Chondrostereum purpureum is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it feeds on dead or decaying organic matter. It produces fruit bodies that are flat, leathery, and fan-shaped, with a purplish hue. The underside of the fruit body is covered in tiny, white spores.

Distribution and Habitat

Chondrostereum purpureum is widely distributed across the world, particularly in temperate regions. It is commonly found in forests, parks, and gardens, where it grows on the wood of deciduous trees, especially those in the Prunus genus.

Silver Leaf Disease

Chondrostereum purpureum is the causative agent of silver leaf disease, a condition that affects various species of trees, particularly those in the Prunus genus. The disease is characterized by a silvery sheen on the leaves of the affected tree, caused by the fungus' mycelium reflecting light. Over time, the disease can cause significant damage to the tree, including branch dieback and, in severe cases, death of the tree.

Control and Management

Control of Chondrostereum purpureum and the silver leaf disease it causes is primarily achieved through preventative measures. These include proper pruning techniques to avoid creating wounds through which the fungus can enter, and the removal and destruction of infected branches or trees to prevent the spread of the fungus. Chemical control methods, such as the use of fungicides, are also sometimes used.

See Also

• List of fungal plant pathogens and diseases
• Plant pathology
• Mycology

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