The fungus is prevalent in calcareous clay loam soils with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.5 and in areas with high summer temperatures. Therefore, the disease is limited to the Southwestern United States. Cotton root rot has been reported in Texas counties from the Red River to the Rio Grande and from Tom Green County to the Neches River. The first symptoms are slight yellowing or bronzing of the leaves. The upper-most leaves wilt within 24 to 48 hours after bronzing, followed by wilting of the lower leaves within 72 hours.
Permanent wilt occurs by the third day, followed by death.
The leaves remain firmly attached to the plant. Affected plants die suddenly, often after excellent growth. Trees and shrubs may die more slowly. Roots are usually extensively invaded by the fungus by the time wilting occurs. Affected plants can be pulled from the soil with little effort.