Abstract
A description is provided for Microsphaera penicillata. Information is included on the disease caused by the organism, its transmission, geographical distribution, and hosts. HOSTS: On species of Alnus, Betula, Syringa, Lathyrus, sweet peas and numerous other hosts (Saknon, 1900; Stevens, 1925; 39: 739; 41: 175) DISEASES: Powdery mildew of alder and lilac. Forms a white to grey floury appearance on the surface of broad leaves of many hard wood trees. It is more prevalent on sweet peas than Erysiphe pisi (CMI Descript. 155) in North America in spring when temperature and humidity are fluctuating. The foliage may be malformed, dropping prematurely or drying out and shrivelling. It is also prevalent on lilac in late summer and autumn, sometimes in dry seasons almost completely covering the foliage, but generally too late in the season to cause serious damage. Young leaves are more susceptible. GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION: World-wide on alder and lilac and occasionally occurring on numerous other hosts. Distributed generally in North America and Europe, also reported from Chile, China, India and Japan (Salmon, 1900, 39: 739; 41: 175). TRANSMISSION: Spores wind borne.