Twigs are also infected. Sunken tan to brown spots with purple borders develop which eventually cause twig dieback. Tiny fungus fruiting bodies can be seen on dead twigs during winter and early spring. Severe twig infection kills leaf buds on the twig, so leaves may not emerge in spring. Depending on tree vigor and infection severity, new buds may form and produce leaves later in the season.
Leaves killed from anthracnose infections can remain on branch tips all winter long.
Terminal buds are also commonly killed. Properly prune out and dispose of infected twigs and attached leaves. Wash shears in soapy water and swab in rubbing alcohol after cutting. Rake up fallen leaves during the growing season and in the fall, and burn them or place them in the garbage. Do not compost them.