Citrus canker

Citrus canker is not in the ACT. Australia was officially declared free of the bacterial disease in 2021 following an eradication campaign in the Northern Territory.

About the disease

Citrus canker affects all types of citrus plants and is most severe in hot, wet areas. It is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri.

Why it is a problem

While the fruit affected by citrus canker is safe to eat, it renders produce unsellable.

Severe infections of plants lead to extensive leaf loss and premature fruit drop. Over time it reduces the plan's vigour and can eventually kill the tree. There is no cure for the disease.

What to look for

Citrus canker causes warty, rust-brown to tan spots (cankers) on leaves, twigs and shoots.

Spots on the leaves are rough to touch and are surrounded by a yellow halo. Scabby cankers also appear on the fruit. It causes leaves and unripe fruit to fall to the ground.

How it spreads

The infected sites ooze sap which can carry the disease from tree to tree by irrigation or rain splash.

Citrus canker can spread quickly over long distances on infected citrus fruits and leaves, as well as on people and equipment.

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