The potential of fungal pathogens to control Hypericum species in Australia
D.A. McLarenA, E. BruzzeseA and I.G. PascoeB
A Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Keith Turnbull Research Institute and Co-operative Research Centre or Weed Management Systems, PO Box 48, Frankston, Victoria 3199, Australia.
B Institute for Horticultural Development, 621 Burwood Highway, Knoxfield, Victoria 3180, Australia.
Abstract
Two fungal pathogens that attack either St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) or tutsan(Hypericum androsaemum) are discussed. The fungus, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, is host-specific and causes significant damage to H. perforatum populations in Nova Scotia in Canada. Its potential as a biological control agent in Australia is reviewed.
In October 1991, infestations of tutsanin the Otway Ranges of Victoria were found to be significantly attacked by the fungus Melampsora hypericorum. The rust had a devastating impact on the weedpopulation, killing entire hillsides. A subsequent inspection in 1994 found only one live tutsan seedling. The tutsan rust fungus is possibly the most successful example of weed biological control ever witnessed in Victoria.
Plant Protection Quarterly (1997) 12 (2) 81-83.