Historically, littleleaf disease occurred on poorly drained and heavily eroded sites in the Piedmont region, an area rich in agricultural history. The name “littleleaf disease” was coined because stunted needles, or “little leaves”, are an early visible symptom. Littleleaf disease was first documented in Alabama in 1934, and by the 1950s, it was reported in scattered stands over 30 million acres (Fig.
This fact sheet outlines the history and causes of littleleaf disease, the symptoms used for identification, and management recommendations. southern pine beetle), littleleaf disease may be misdiagnosed as an insect issue, or undiagnosed altogether. Additionally, since infected trees are more susceptible to insect outbreaks (e.g. Infrequent reports of littleleaf disease in the Piedmont region today may be a direct result of shortleaf pine's less common occurrence. Loblolly pine's ( Pinus taeda L.) faster growth rate and lower littleleaf disease susceptibility was more favorable for replanting on Piedmont sites compared to shortleaf pine. Following major losses of shortleaf pine during the 20 th century, the species was frequently thinned out of stands and rarely Littleleaf disease contributed to the decline of shortleaf pine as an important commercial species in the Piedmont region. Some factors are more important - i.e., they have a primary role in disease formation - while others have a secondary role, and mostly contribute to making disease symptoms worse.
Littleleaf disease results from a combination of biological factors and site characteristics, when combined with a susceptible host tree. This disease is a particular problem for shortleaf pine ( Pinus echinata Mill.) and is one reason why this species is less widely planted compared with other pines. Littleleaf disease is a forest health concern for several pine species in the southeastern United States.
Native range of two commercial, southern pine species affected by littleleaf disease. Southern Regional Extension Forestry Figure 1.
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