Red valerian (Centranthus ruber L.): wild host of Cucumber mosaic virus in uncultivated areas of Campania region (Southern Italy)

Abstract

In spring 2009‒2010, red valerian plants (Centranthus ruber L.) showing stunting, mild leaf vein mosaic, reduction in size of leaves and flowers and occasional deformation and reduction of the number of leaves, were observed in Campania (Southern Italy). The presence of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) in the diseased plants was demonstrated by the reactions of test plants, electron microscopy, serology and RT-PCR. On the basis of highest identities and closest phylogenetic relationships, CMV from C. ruber was most closely related to CMV subgroup I A. Koch’s postulates were fulfilled by back-inoculating healthy C. ruber seedlings.