Causal Agent

The fungus Ciboria carunculoides 

 

Hosts

Mulberry 

 

Symptoms

The symptoms appear only on infected fruit. Carpels of the fruit are replaced by sclerotia, which enlarge and extend beyond healthy berries. White mulberry varieties and hybrids are more susceptible to popcorn disease. 

 

Control

This disease is not considered economically important on ornamental mulberries. However, popcorn disease on mulberries propagated for fruit production can cause high yield losses. Control is achieved by taking sanitary measures. Remove and bury the infected fruit on the trees and any ground debris as it appears during the growing season. Please contact your local county extension office for current information.