Puccinia galii-verni

Puccinia galii-verni is a fungus which galls Bedstraws (Galium verum, G saxatile, G uliginosum) and rarely Crosswort (Cruciata laevipes).  It usually affects the stem or underside of leaves, producing small orange-brown swellings with brown telia.  There is no host alternation, and only telia are produced

Puccinia punctata also affects Galium species, causing slight swellings, but Redfern & Shirley (2023) state that it may not be a true gall-causer.  Spermogonia, aecia and uredinia are produced as well as telia.   Hosts include Galium album, Galium odoratum, Galium aparine, G saxatile, G uliginosum and G verum.  It has been recorded in VC55.

Puccinia difformis affects Galium aparine (Cleavers) and some other Galium species.  It causes galls, and spermogonia, aecia and telia are produced.  According to Redfern & Shirley (2023), it is very rare in Britain.

host/galls

Photograph the rust and the galls on the host.  Ensure you have noted the host-plant species in your comments.  On some hosts, microscopic examination may be needed.

Grasslands and hedgerows, on Bedstraws and Crosswort including Cruciata laevipes, Galium album, Galium saxatile, Galium uliginosum and Galium verum.

Puccinia galii-verni appears to be widespread in Britain, but true status is difficult to determine due to lack of records.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.