Birch Rust - Melampsoridium betulinum

The rust fungus Melampsoridium betulinum affects the leaves of Birch species (and sometimes Alder)  and alternates its life cycle with Larch.

Areas where the host species Birch, Alder and Larch occur.

When the host species are in leaf.

Since both host species are deciduous it is also thought to overwinter in buds, as well as producing resting spores.

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.