Leaf gall is caused by a fungus, and results in the formation of off-colored, thick, fleshy leaves in early spring, shortly after bud break. Through April and May, the galls are obvious and range from greenish pink to rose in color. During the growing season, the galls shrivel and turn black, and eventually fall off. Although the symptoms appear dramatic, the damage is usually economically insignificant. In the nursery, however, it can cause tremendous damage if left unchecked. Young plants with few shoots can become severely malformed.

Management Options

Non-Chemical Management

Orient rows and space plants to maximize air flow and promote drying.
Schedule irrigation applications to avoid excessive leaf wetness, especially in spring.
Do not grow plants in heavy shade.
Identify, remove, and destroy galls in the spring to prevent spores from being released.
Plant resistant varieties, such as C. japonica which is heavily resistant.

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides

None recommended

Images

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Caption: Camellia leaf gall Photo by: R.S. Byther

WSU Extension

Hortsense