BGCI’s International Plant Sentinal Network (IPSN) is excited to share a collaborative project with Forest Research focused on monitoring Canker stain of Plane in the UK.

Canker stain of plane (Ceratocystis platani) is a very serious fungal disease that could potential harm London plane trees. The disease was introduced to Southern France and Italy at the end of the second World War from North America. Since then, it has been progressively spreading north and is now recorded in Paris and Nantes (see distribution map here).

The fungus infects through wounds, typically causing branch dieback, but can also spread through root contact. Its presence is indicated by distinct staining of the wood, often referred to as leopard spotting. Depending on its health, an infected tree can die within months or years. Unfortunately, the disease is extremely difficult to eradicate once it is present, due to its ability to spread easily and because complete erradication of the disease requires the destruction of all infected wood.

Canker stain of plane is not currently found in the UK. Therefore, this project aims to improve our readiness for its potential arrival by setting up a network of monitoring sites across the UK using passive spore traps. We are currently looking for suitable locations, and we believe your expertise and engagement will significantly contribute to the success of this initiative.

If interested, please complete the sign-up form by Monday 24th June so we can get in touch and send you further details.

We hope you would consider joining us in this important endeavour and look forward hearing from you!