Penicillium ear rot
scouted Sept. 15, 2025
- Scientific Name
- Penicillium sp.
- Background
- Corn in Camden County was being harvested, and it was observed that corn cobs of blue/green and gray/white coloration were coming out of the back of the combine. The husk is blue on many of the ears as well. Some of the corn grain has a green/blue hue to it, especially at the tip of the ear. Widespread across the planting of this hybrid, not reported in other hybrids grown by the same grower. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- The issue identified here was Penicillium ear rot. The signs for Penicillium ear rot are blue-green powdery spores on the corn kernels, usually at the tip of the ear. It's more common in non-Bt corn because of greater potential for insect damage. If moisture is high in the stored grain bin, Penicillium ear rot can be a problem, and if there are symptoms in the stored grain, it should be tested for mycotoxins.
