The relationship of Xylaria oxyacanthae to seeds of Crataegus monogyna

Abstract

Xylaria oxyacanthae produces stromata on Crataegus seeds. Cultures from seeds taken from a tree canopy or caught prior to touching the ground proved that, at least in low percentages, the fungus infects the seed while on the tree. Although not proven, it seems probable that the infection is by way of the flower.