Cryptosphaeria Canker (Snake Canker)

Snake canker creates long, thin cankers that resemble snakes spiraling around tree bark. You see elongated lesions that gradually girdle branches. The fungus causes significant branch dieback and plant decline. Remove infected branches and maintain tree health to prevent problems.

Prune out cankered branches at least six inches below visible symptoms, making cuts into healthy wood. Sterilize your tools between cuts. Canker pathogens typically enter through wounds, so minimize pruning injuries and avoid working on trees when bark is wet. Maintain tree vigor through proper watering and avoid stress from drought or compacted soil, which makes trees more susceptible.