Lethal bronzing (palm phytoplasma)

Symptoms

Premature fruit and flower drop, followed by a bronze-to-reddish discoloration of the oldest fronds that progresses upward; the spear leaf collapses and the bud dies, killing the palm within months.

Plants affected

• Cabbage palm
• Queen palm
• Mexican fan palm

Common questions

How do I recognise Lethal bronzing (palm phytoplasma) on Cabbage palm?

Premature fruit and flower drop, followed by a bronze-to-reddish discoloration of the oldest fronds that progresses upward; the spear leaf collapses and the bud dies, killing the palm within months.

Do I have to report Lethal bronzing (palm phytoplasma)?

No. Lethal bronzing (palm phytoplasma) is not a notifiable organism, so there is nothing to report to an authority. Treat it as a normal garden problem.

How is Lethal bronzing (palm phytoplasma) treated?

Mainly with biological and cultural measures — removing affected material, changing the conditions that favour it, and treating with agents approved in your country. The exact steps and their timing depend on the plant, the season and where you live: Dr. Phyto works them out in a free diagnosis.