Red Tip Photinia Base Fungus: Root Rot, Replace

Red tip photinias (Photinia × fraseri) have white fungal fruiting at base, upper leaves drooping. Fungus on bark = root rot fungus fruiting (likely Armillaria or Phytophthora).

Prognosis

Slow, progressive decline. No cure. Fungus spreads to nearby red tips via roots.

Action

1. Plan replacement with resistant species (e.g., holly, viburnum, cleyera).
2. Remove dead/dying plants promptly.
3. Improve drainage in bed.

Bonus

Red tips also get Entomosporium leaf spot (severe defoliation). See UAEX FSA-6112: Red Tip Photinia Disease