Florida’s Palms Threatened by Invasive Bacteria

Leafhopper Image by xpda - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 , Link

Lethal Bronzing was first reported in Hillsborough County in 2006. It is closely related to Palm Lethal Yellowing and is caused by a mollicute very similar to bacteria but without a cell wall. The disease was first detected in Texas in the early 1980s and has since spread, with cases reported in Louisiana, Florida and up into the Carolinas. The disease has been confirmed in just over 30 counties in Florida since it was first reported.

The spread of Lethal Bronzing is typically attributed to an insect , no bigger than a grain of rice, commonly known as a treehopper. (Haplaxius Crudus) The infected ‘bug’ transfers a parasitic bacteria into a healthy palm while it feeds. This bacteria multiplies and essentially blocks the vascular network of the tree, causing the circulation of sugars and other nutrients to be hindered and ultimately stopped. The tree is literally killed from the inside.

Several types of Florida palms including the Sabal, Queen, Christmas and Sylvester (or Phoenix) are susceptible to LBD or Lethal Bronzing Disease. The rapid spread of the disease can be partially explained by the popularity and use of Sabals along the interstate system and Sylvester palms in resorts throughout the state. An infected palm can go months before it shows signs of the disease. Some common symptoms include browning or bronzing of lower foliage which then moves upward, dropping of fruit, further leaf collapse and death. Once a tree is diagnosed with LBD, it needs to be removed and other surrounding trees should be inspected as well.

Contact us today if you suspect your palms may be infected. We have a large, knowledgeable staff including certified arborists that are ready and happy to assist you today.

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