Camellia Fungal Leaf Gall

UGA Extension Gwinnett has received many calls from homeowners describing a strange appearance of the foliage of their camellias. Some of the leaves have swollen and have a white to pink color. They are somewhat unsightly. The malady is called is camellia leaf gall, which is caused by a fungus. The malady is more prevalent during the spring flush of leaf growth. They eventually turn brown and rupture, releasing spores. The good news is the fungus will not harm the plants, and no chemical control is necessary. Cut off the infected leaves and also remove any plant debris that has fallen to the ground and dispose.