Decline in Robinia pseudoacacia 'Frisia' trees

Robinia pseudoacacia 'Frisia' is a popular yellow-leaved tree, widely grown in many gardens and public spaces. However, in recent years, this particular cultivar, 'Frisia', has suffered from a range of problems, causing the ultimate loss of the tree.

In the last several years, there have been many reports of 'Frisia' failing to come fully into leaf in spring. Some reports suggest that the leaves tend to lose their leaflets but the leaf rib remains on the tree. The tree commonly fails to recover and ultimately dies.

Investigations are still ongoing into this problem to identify the cause and major contributing factors. The symptoms are consistent with a wilt fungus blocking the water-carrying vessels in the trunk.

Unfortunately there is no control as yet for this problem, please watch this space for further information.