Bougainvillea Blue Wood: Fungal Pigment, Lab Diagnosis Needed

Post-Hurricane Bougainvillea Blooms Then Dies, Wood Turns Blue

After Hurricane Dolly, bougainvillea bloomed heavily then branches died. Cutting back revealed blue wood. Unsterilized saw spread issue; whole plant died.

Expert Explanation

Blue color is pigment from blue-stain fungi (Ceratocystis, Hypoxylon, Graphium) often insect-associated. Cause of decline must be determined first—may need lab exam. Contact county Extension (Texas A&M lab in College Station).