Entyloma helianthi: identification and characterization of the causal agent of sunflower white leaf smut.

White leaf smut is a minor foliar disease of sunflower (Helianthus annuus) in the United States. The disease occurs primarily in greenhouse-grown sunflowers in California and causes leaf spot, defoliation, and a reduction in yield and crop value. Historically, many Entyloma specimens with similar morphological characters, but infecting diverse plant genera including Helianthus, were called Entyloma polysporum.

First Detection of Puccinia ballotiflora on Salvia greggii.

Salvia greggii, autumn sage, is grown for its bright red to white flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. In February of 2008, a rust sample was sent to the CDFA plant pathology diagnostics laboratory in Sacramento from a nursery in Santa Barbara County, CA. Pustules were abundant on older leaves causing moderate defoliation of containerized stock.

Leaf Spot of Arugula, Caused by Alternaria japonica, in California.

Arugula (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa (Mill.) Thell.

First Published Report of Rust on White Alder Caused by Melampsoridium hiratsukanum in the United States.

White alder (Alnus rhombifolia) is a fast-growing tree native to the western United States and is planted frequently in landscapes. In September 2010, mature leaves of white alder with small, orange-yellow pustules were collected in a commercial nursery in Santa Cruz County, CA. Approximately 25 white alder trees were affected.

First Report of Fusarium Wilt Caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. passiflorae on Passion Fruit in North America.

Passiflora edulis Sims f. edulis, known as purple passion fruit, is a woody, perennial vine that is grown for its attractive two-part flower and its purple, edible fruit (4). In November 2009, passion fruit vines were collected during a regulatory nursery inspection in Santa Barbara County and submitted to the California Department of Food and Agriculture Plant Pest Diagnostics Laboratory.