History of Boysenberry and Youngberry in New Zealand in relation to their problems with Boysenberry decline, the association of a fungal pathogen, and possibly a phytoplasma, with this disease

Abstract

The history of Boysenberry (Rubus ursinus Chamisso & Schlenhtendal) and Youngberry (R. ursinus derivative) were traced from their origins in the United States, to their importation into New Zealand, and subsequent use as the major Rubus crops. The investigation into possible causes of Boysenberry decline disease are described, and the probable association of the recently detected Cercosporella rubi fungus with this decline is discussed, as is the presence of Phormium yellow leaf phytoplasma in some Boysenberry decline affected plants. A graft‐transmissible agent in Boysenberries, which may be C. rubi, was shown to take several seasons to induce visible symptoms following graft inoculation. The means by which C. rubi may have gained entry to New Zealand by the importation of infected blackberry (Rubus spp.) cultivars from the southern United States is discussed, as is the means by which C. rubi may have been spread within New Zealand.

Key words:

• Rubus
• Boysenberry
• Youngberry
• Boysenberry decline disease
• Cercosporella rubi fungus
• Phormium yellow leaf phytoplasma
• disease introduction
• disease spread