problem solver
Fasciation
IDENTIFICATION — Have you ever seen a lily with a huge flower head and a stem that’s flattened and crowded with leaves? This is called “fasciation” and often looks like several stems have fused together into one flattened stem with lots more leaves. And the flowers may look like a whole bouquet on just one stem!
CONTROL — Fasciation affects many plants, but experts aren’t sure what causes it. Some think it’s caused by a virus; others think bacteria are responsible. Either way, it doesn’t spread to other plants — you can leave the stems or remove them. This growth is unpredictable and likely won’t return next year. Some fasciated plants are propagated by stem cuttings to keep the unusual growth. That’s how you get crested saguaro cactus, fantail willow and crested celosia.
