3 Shrubs Also Afflicted by Sudden Oak Death

Three North Coast shrubs have been added to the list of victims of the killer disease known as sudden oak death.

California coffeeberry, Toyon and California honeysuckle were added after afflicted plants were found in Sonoma, Napa and Marin counties.

The additions bring to 15 the number of trees and shrubs affected by the microbe Phytophthora ramorum, which causes sudden oak death. Scientists have said more plants could develop the disease, and they are concerned that the organism is causing more widespread problems.