First report of Verbena latent virus infecting giant goldenrod in Belgium.

This article reports the first case of Verbena latent virus (VeLV) infecting giant goldenrod (Solidago gigantea) in Belgium. Giant goldenrod is an invasive plant species that was introduced to Europe in the 18th century. A survey conducted in Belgium found VeLV infection in one site out of ten surveyed in 2023. VeLV has a wide host range and can be transmitted through various means, making it important to understand its biology and potential impact. This is the first documented case of VeLV infecting S. gigantea worldwide, and the plant may serve as an asymptomatic reservoir for the virus. [Extracted from the article]