Pyracantha: Scab

• Categories: Ornamentals Pyracantha Pyracantha Diseases Shrubs
• Last review date: 2026-08-28 02:29

Biology

Pyracantha scab is caused by a fungus that overwinters in infected leaves, twigs, and berries. Young leaves and berries are most susceptible to infection.

Olive green to black spots develop on leaves, twigs and fruit. Infected leaves may turn yellow or red and fall off prematurely.

Management Options

See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Pruning in dormant season to remove dead wood and foliage.
• Plant resistant cultivars: for yellow berries, ‘Shawnee’ and ‘Aurea’; for orange berries, ‘Mohave’, ‘Orange Glow’, or ‘Teton’; for red berries, ‘Watereri’, ‘Government Red’, ‘Navaho’.
• Rake and destroy fallen leaves and fruit.

Chemical Management

Begin treatment in spring at first bud break before symptoms appear.

Approved Pesticides

If you choose to use a pesticide, some examples of products that are legal in Washington are listed below. Some products are labeled for just INDOOR or just OUTDOOR use, or may allow both uses. Be sure to choose a product appropriate for your situation. Always read and follow all label directions.

• Bonide Copper Fungicide Spray or Dust RTU [Organic]
  Active ingredient: basic copper sulfate
  EPA registration number: 4-58
• GardenTech Daconil Fungicide Concentrate
  Active ingredient: chlorothalonil
  EPA registration number: 67572-82-71004
• Monterey Liqui-Cop Copper Fungicidal Garden Spray
  Active ingredient: copper-ammonia complex
  EPA registration number: 54705-7
• Ortho Max Garden Disease Control Concentrate
  Active ingredient: chlorothalonil
  EPA registration number: 239-2522
• Spectracide IMMUNOX Multi-Purpose Fungicide Spray Concentrate
  Active ingredient: myclobutanil
  EPA registration number: 9688-123-8845
• This list may not include all products registered for this use.