Sooty bark disease
Sooty bark disease mainly affects sycamore trees, although most species of maple are also affected. The disease is caused by the fungus Cryptostroma corticale. Once activated, spores are produced in great numbers which give the trunk and branches a sooty black appearance. Spores are spread to other trees via the wind.
Ultimately, the disease usually kills the tree.
There is generally a low risk to individuals with low exposure to sooty bark disease, such as dog-walkers and passers-by. However, if you are carrying out work to affected trees you should wear appropriate PPE and ideally do this during wet conditions so that airborne spores are minimized. Infected logs should not be kept for firewood.
In Cheltenham Sooty Bark Disease has existed for many years. However, until 2026, very few maples have died and had to be removed as a result. With the onset of particularly long, hot and very dry summers, its presence has increased. We have had to remove a number of trees from our parks and open spaces, including the Honeybourne line, Landsdown Crescent Green, Pittville Lawn and Pittville Park. Our trees officers continue to monitor the towns maple population for the disease and respond as appropriate.
For more information about the disease please visit the Forest Research website. You will also find contact details on their website for reporting cases.
