When no new tissue is available or environmental conditions are unsuitable for continued growth, the fungus produces small hard black structures called sclerotia on or in the stem and crown. The fungus produces a white cottony growth on the stem or crown near the soil surface. The plant turns tan color and dies. All aboveground parts of the plant may become infected, and the disease may extend to the crown and upper root. In early spring, numerous small black to dark brown spots develop on the lower leaves, petioles, and stems.
Young shoots are often girdled and killed.
Lesions on stems and petioles enlarge and may girdle and blacken large areas near the base of the plant. The fungus also causes a crown and root rot. In humid areas, seed pods may discolor and shrivel. Spots on leaves are oval and dark brown with lighter center and are usually surrounded by a pale yellow to tan halo. A single lesion may cause a leaflet to turn yellow and drop off prematurely.