The causal agent of dogwood anthracnose is a fungus that prefers cool, moist conditions. Trees in wooded areas are more likely to be infected, particularly at higher elevations or along waterways. Dogwoods of all ages and sizes are susceptible, and after initial infection, trees can die within 2 to 5 years depending upon the site. Symptoms appear first in the lower crown affecting leaves and twigs. Tan spots with purple rims occur on the leaves in spring and there may be twig dieback and epicormic branching.
Cankers develop on twigs, branches, and trunk as the disease progresses.
The flowering dogwood has tremendous economic value as an ornamental tree. Nurseries became concerned as sales plummeted after media reports that dogwoods were doomed. In response, they launched a public relations campaign and supported numerous research efforts. Their message is that well-maintained landscape trees are far less vulnerable to the disease than woodland trees. Research has shown that care and cultural practices are critical to the health of dogwood and its resistance to the disease.