What's killing native dogwoods?

Discula Anthracnose

There is a fungus that has been killing native dogwoods up and down the east coast. It started in the north east and has traveled down the mountain ranges and into the piedmont regions. Symptoms include lesions on the leaves and vertical water sprouts. Dead leaves may remain attached to the branch over the winter. Discula anthracnose is a leaf fungus that attacks the vascular system. The disease develops rapidly and may kill the tree. Treatment is only preventative; there is no cure once the fungus is present. The disease is responsible for killing countless native dogwoods throughout the eastern United States.