Kretzschmaria deusta

Carbon cushion

In spring, the fruiting bodies (stromata) are flat, crusty, round or elliptic, with a white edge and grey-green centrein which conidia are formed. In summer the fruiting body transforms into a black lumpy structure of a brittle charcoal-like consistency. In its surface, bottle-shaped perithecia are sunk, containing a gelatinous mass with asci and ascospores. Above the decayed area the affected trunk or thick branches develop false heartwood of noticeable red-brown discolouration. As a result of advanced decay, the tree trunks often break in roots or at the trunk base. The older name of the fungus is Ustulina deusta.

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A dry black formation on a trunk similar to charcoal.

Tree Species: Elm, Beech, Maple, Lime, Horse Chestnut

Part of a plant- attacked: Tree trunk

Pest significance: Very harmful

Pest Category: Fungi

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes

Pest group: Fungi