Phytophthora abietivora is a plant disease that was originally found on a diseased Christmas tree (fraser fir, Abies fraseri) in the state of Connecticut in the United States in 2019. It was later reported in Pennsylvania and Virginia. In Quebec, it has been reported from forest nurseries and Christmas tree plantations, where it is associated with root rot. In Ontario, it has been reported in environmental samples from forested areas but has not been associated with any disease.
Phytophthora abietivora is associated with root rot, which causes foliar chlorosis, discolouration, stem cankers, and may lead to tree decline and death. Young saplings are most at risk, but the disease can affect older trees as well. It may be confused with other conditions or root rot diseases. Laboratory testing is needed to confirm the species. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency works to determine its distribution and status in Canada.
If you think you have found this plant disease, report it to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Report a Phytophthora abietivora sighting
More information
- Pest fact sheet
- Pest fact sheet from Quebec's Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation: Phytophthora abietivora dans les sapins de Noël (in French only) (Agri Réseau)