Xylella Fastidiosa: One of the world's most feared plant pathogens
The bacteria Xylella fastidiosa is a plant pathogen of significant concern worldwide and would rank as one of Australia’s most feared plant pathogens. In recent years it has infested crops from America to Europe and its spread is likely to continue.
Many landscape species such as elms, maples, oaks and oleander are affected, along with important cropping plants including citrus, grapes, olives, almond, peach and coffee. Other hosts include avocado, blueberry, plum, pecan, sour cherry, rosemary and blackberry. In this month's Nursery Paper the team from the National Nursery Industry Biosecurity Program will explore X. fastidiosa in depth and examine some of the current outbreaks around the world.