Chalara fraxinea - Ash Tree Fungus

 Chalara fraxinea

A few words about C. fraxinea.  Chalara fraxinea is a fungus that kills Ash trees by destroying their leaves.  The term most commonly used is Ash dieback.  Sapling trees are most vulnerable and older trees tend to survive a few more years. 

Signs to look for            

Loss of leaf at the crown

Wilting leaves with black/brown discoloration

Whole trees with withered tops

Die back of shoots and twigs

                                  
 Spores of Chalara fraxinea blow around in the air and can spread up to 20 miles a year.  Experts currently remain mildly optimistic that this fungus might still be contained before it starts to produce spores in the Spring.

If you do suspect the disease, and saplings will be the most vulnerable, please contact one of the following Agencies.

Forest Research Tree Health Diagnostic and Advisory Service 01420 23000

or

Forestry Commission Plant Health Service 0131 314 6414