Taphrina

Taphrina is a genus of parasitic fungi that cause leaf curling and malformations on various plants. These fungi, belonging to the order Taphrinales and family Taphrinaceae, produce asci (spore-producing sacs) in a superficial layer on the plant's surface.123

Commonly known as leaf blister diseases, infections by Taphrina species can lead to swollen, distorted leaves with discolored blisters. These affected leaves often fall prematurely, weakening the plant. In some cases, fruits can become deformed, or abnormal clusters of shoots, known as witches' brooms, may form on stems. While these diseases can cause agricultural losses, they are typically not lethal and can be managed with fungicides.4