Red Tip Photinias Are Not the Best Choice

Red Tip Photinia leaves affected by the fungal disease, Entomosporium Leaf Spot.

Published April 30, 2018 By ARBORILOGICAL SERVICES

Entomosporium leaf spot is a widespread and destructive fungal disease that affects trees and shrubs in the rose family, including hawthorns, red-tipped photinias, pears, and apples. 

The disease is caused by the fungus Diplocarpon mespili and is also known as Diplocarpon or Fabrea leaf blight. Control requires regular fungicide sprays during environmental conditions that are conducive for the disease, such as spring. Severe infections lead to severely spotted leaves, followed by defoliation and eventual death without treatment. Fallen diseased leaves should be collected and discarded.

It is difficult to spray or treat the entire canopy of a large hedge, such as the one above, and the fungus easily spreads to other trees and shrubs within a neighborhood through the fungal spores released from late winter through much of the growing season. 

Rather than planting Red Tip Photinias, please see our list of recommended trees for other screening options.