Cause The poinsettia mosaic virus is found in many plants throughout the industry. The virus can be transmitted mechanically but not by plants' simply touching each other. Transmission can also occur by using infected stock for propagation and grafting.
Symptoms Infected plant leaves develop angular areas of light and dark green. Bracteoles may be malformed and may not develop their full coloration. Symptoms may not occur at high temperatures.
Cultural control
- Buy virus-indexed stock, if available.
- Minimize worker contact with plants.
References Daughtrey, M L., and Chase, A.R. 2018. Diseases of Poinsettia. In McGovern, R.J. and Elmer, W.H. (eds.) Handbook of Florists' Crops Diseases. Springer Int.
Koenig, R., Lesemann, D.E., and Fulton, R.W. 1986. Poinsettia mosaic virus. AAB Descriptions of Plant Viruses, No. 311.