Occurrence of leaf rust of canna in Singapore caused by Puccinia thaliae

A first recorded occurrence of leaf rust disease on canna plants in Singapore, caused by the fungus Puccinia thaliae, has been documented. The study identified distinct orange lesions on infected leaves, which release spores and lead to plant decline. Morphological analysis confirmed the pathogen as P. thaliae, with urediniospores measuring 36.63 ± 1.63 μm × 26.88 ± 0.88 μm, characterized by thick, echinulate walls. Koch’s postulates were satisfied through controlled inoculation, confirming the pathogen's role in disease development. The rust has previously been reported from Hawaii, India, and South Africa but was undocumented in Singapore until this study. The research highlights the potential impact of P. thaliae on ornamental canna plants, which are widely used in landscaping.

Neo, N. W., & Tham, F. Y. (2010). Occurrence of leaf rust of canna in Singapore caused by Puccinia thaliae. Plant Pathology, 59(2), 406. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-3059.2009.02194.x