Rapid Plant Deaths in Southern Spain: New Oleander Disease

Mountains of Southern Spain: 6-yr oleander died in week; 2 months later, hedge shrub dying same way; last year pepper tree same. Good drainage, water. No visible pests.

Identified Threat

New disease in oleander nurseries in Valencia/Murcia (autumn 2003): necrotic spots on leaves/stems, severe blight, defoliation, plant death. Caused by unidentified pathogen.

Action

Consult local Spanish agricultural authority—this problem not yet known in US. Expert in region needed for diagnosis and management.