Caryota mitis Loureiro (Arecaceae), is an ornamental plant of commercial interest in Argentina. In 2003, samples collected from Castelli, province of Chaco, Argentina, were affected by leaf blight and exhibited considerable damage. Using common laboratory techniques, a Dematiaceae associated with the observable symptoms was isolated. Based on cultural studies, morphometric characteristics and pathogenicity test, the fungus was identified as Exserohilum rostratum (Drechsler) Leonard & Suggs. This is the first report of E. rostratum affecting C. mitis in Argentina.
etiology; palm; leaf spot
