Aspen Trunk Rot

Daldinia concentrica

11 host plants · Fungal

Last updated

Data Maturity Baseline

This profile contains verified disease data from extension databases. Regional field notes and expert review are in progress.

Heart rot develops inside aspen trunks, visible only when wood is cut. This decay weakens trees and makes them hazardous. Remove affected trees to prevent spread.

Reduce moisture around affected tissue by improving drainage and air circulation. Remove rotted material cleanly and dispose of it away from the planting area. Avoid wounding healthy tissue during cleanup, as fresh wounds create new entry points. If the problem keeps returning, evaluate whether the site is too wet or poorly drained for the species you are growing.

Quick Reference

Agent Type
fungal
Causal Agent
Daldinia concentrica
Host Plants
11
Favorable Conditions
Fungal spores from fruiting bodies released during wet weather; entry through...

Management

Vulnerability Window

Year-round wound infection; fruiting bodies visible fall/winter. Wounds remain susceptible indefinitely until healed.

What Triggers Infection

Fungal spores from fruiting bodies released during wet weather; entry through fresh wounds or bark damage.

Cultural Controls

  • Avoid wounds to trunk and branches
  • Make proper pruning cuts
  • Remove dead or damaged branches
  • Maintain tree health and vigor
  • Remove heavily decayed trees

Host Plants (11)