Loropetalum Canker: Bacterial Gall Caused by Pseudomonas savastanoi

Dying limbs on loropetalum were initially thought to be crown gall, but Auburn pathologist Jim Jacobi identified Pseudomonas savastanoi, which causes galls on oleander, olive, and other plants. Treatment: prune galled branches several inches below the canker during dry weather, sterilizing tools between cuts. Follow with copper fungicide/bactericide applications to slow spread.