Lirula needle blight

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Michelle Grabowski - University of Minnesota Extension Educator
Cynthia Ash Kanner - former University of Minnesota Extension Specialist

Lirula needle blight is caused by the fungus Lirula macrospora.

This disease can occur in Colorado blue spruce, Picea pungens, and white spruce, Picea glauca. White spruce, including Black Hills spruce, is the more susceptible species.

Identification

In late summer second year needles become discolored, yellow to brown.
In the following year (third year needles) a raised black line forms along the midrib of infected needles, mostly on the lower surfaces.
In some cases horizontal black bands form across infected needles.
Needles on lower branches are commonly infected first.
Infected needles turn grayish brown after spores are released but remain attached to tree for several years.

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