I Found Fungus on My Tree – Is It Dangerous?
It depends on the species of fungus.
What’s Actually Happening
Some fungi break down deadwood only. Others indicate structural decay.
Concerning fungi in Niagara include:
- Armillaria (Honey Fungus) – root rot, serious structural concern
- Ganoderma spp. – butt rot, stability risk
- Kretzschmaria deusta (Brittle Cinder) – root/collar decay
- Black Knot (Apiosporina morbosa) – affects Prunus species
Common but often less structurally concerning fungi:
- Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus sulphureus)
- Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
- Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)
How to Handle It
Serious decay fungi → call an arborist for risk assessment.
Less concerning fungi → monitor and confirm identification.
From our experience, some trees with fungal presence require removal. Others remain structurally manageable.
Bottom Line
Fungus is a sign. What it means depends on which fungus.