Leaf Spot of Indiangrass Caused by Colletotrichum caudatum. K. E. Zeiders, Research Plant Pathologist, USDA-ARS, U.S. Regional Pasture Research Laboratory, University Park, PA 16802. Plant Dis. 71:348-350. Accepted for publication 4 September 1986. This article is in the public domain and not copyrightable. It may be freely reprinted with customary crediting of the source. The American Phytopathological Society, 1987. DOI: 10.1094/PD-71-0348.

A leaf disease caused by Colletotrichum caudatum was prevalent on indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans) in research plots in Centre County, PA, during five of the six years 1980–1985. The disease was usually moderate to severe in late August and September. Results of cultural studies of the pathogen are presented. C. caudatum caused severe damage only on indiangrass cultivars in greenhouse inoculation tests. Differences among mean disease ratings were significant at P <0.01. Six other warm-season grasses, seven cool-season grasses, and three small-grain species were not infected. Corn (Zea mays) was slightly susceptible, and sudangrass (Sorghum sudanense) was highly resistant to C. caudatum. Corn is reported as a new host of C. caudatum. This is the first demonstration of the pathogenicity of C. caudatum on indiangrass.

Keyword(s): Ellisiella caudata.