Patches of bark peeling away to reveal a silvery or tan crust on an oak trunk are a classic sign of hypoxylon canker.
This fungus lives quietly in many oaks until drought, root damage, or heat stress weakens the tree. Then it spreads quickly through the sapwood, and the crust under the bark darkens as it matures.
Once the canker is visible on the main trunk, the wood behind it decays fast and the tree can become hazardous. Water oaks, willow oaks, and red oaks in Memphis and Fayette County yards are often affected after dry summers.
Prevention is the best defense: deep watering during dry spells, mulching the root zone, and avoiding soil compaction. When bark shedding shows up on an oak, an ISA Certified Arborist can confirm the cause and whether the tree remains safe.
#TreeHealth #MemphisTN #OakTrees #ShelbyCounty
A close-up of an oak trunk with sloughing bark exposing the fungal crust, from a real Memphis-area job, with part of the tree visible for context. Authentic field photos are more credible than stock.
Canva text suggestion: "Peeling Oak Bark Is a Warning Sign" or "Drought Stress Opens the Door to Canker"