Question
Tulip Tree
Hi,
I read a post here about the tulip tree spots thinking it sounded similar but I don't have the "honeydew". The lower leaves have a black mottled appearance and there are white spots scattered along the branches. They are really thick nearer to the ground. Is this a fungus or an insect? Will it kill the tree? How do I get rid of the ugly stuff?
I've tried attaching a pic to this message. Hopefully it came through.
Thanks in advance for your help.
AnswerTeresa:
These spots on your photo resemble lichens, harmless growths that we see common on trees. See the link below to read about lichens.
http://www.uaex.edu/Other_Areas/publications/PDF/FSA-7554.pdf
They also could be insects like a type of scale. If you have them on small branches/twigs, snip one off and carry to your local garden center for an ID. It would require a closer exam than I can see on the photo. If it is an insect, then an appropriate insecticide can be prescribed. But, I think this is probably a harmless/unsightly growth and doesn't impact the overall health of the plant. I saw a leaf in your photo that looks like sooty mold- which is the result of "honeydew" from insects.
Your plant looks like a Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia soulangiana) rather than a tulip tree (Lirodendron tulipfera) as we know it here. Common names can be confusing sometimes, especially in different parts of the country.
Regards AND thanks for the good photo!
Steve
