Ramarama (Lophomyrtus bullata) exhibiting characteristic signs of myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii).
Ramarama, an endemic species, is seriously threatened by the arrival of myrtle rust in New Zealand. It has been found to have higher rates of infection than other plant species in the Myrtaceae group in NZ, and, as a result its conservation status was changed to 'nationally critical' in 2017 (NZPCN).
watercolour
2020
Close-up showing spores on infected leaves