Northern Tooth Fungus (Climacodon septentrionalis)
Northern Tooth Fungus (Climacodon septentrionalis)
Northern Tooth Fungus (Climacodon septentrionalis) is a parasitic, shelf-like fungus that causes heartwood rot in hardwood trees, particularly maple trees.There is no known cure for the infection, but trees can be managed by maintaining their health, avoiding wounds to the trunk, and having a certified arborist perform a risk assessment to determine if the tree needs removal.
What it is
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A parasite:The fungus enters trees through wounds and lives in the central heartwood.
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Visual identification:It forms large, overlapping clusters of white to cream-colored, shelf-like caps on the tree trunk.
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Unique feature:Instead of pores or gills on the underside, it produces white spines or “teeth,” which are used to spread spores.
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Hosts:It primarily infects hardwoods, especially sugar maple, but also affects other maples, green ash, and beech trees.
How to treat it
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No cure:Once established, there is no treatment to eradicate the fungus or reverse the heartwood rot.
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Tree health:Optimize the tree’s health through proper fertilization, mulching, and pruning to help it resist further infection.
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Prevent wounds:Avoid wounding the tree’s trunk to reduce entry points for the fungus.
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Risk assessment:Consult a certified arborist for a thorough risk assessment. The presence of the fungus is not always grounds for removal, as infected trees can remain stable for years.
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Consider removal:If the damage is severe or the tree is structurally unsound, removal by an arborist may be necessary to prevent falling.
If you have a question about your trees health, call Johnson Ops Tree Care. One of our Certified Arborists will be happy to meet with you, and discuss your concerns.
