Verticillium is a genus of fungi that includes plant-pathogenic species known to cause a vascular wilt disease in a wide range of host plants. The two most well-known species are Verticillium dahliae and Verticillium albo-atrum.
 
 
These fungi are soil-borne pathogens, and their spores can survive in the soil for extended periods. Verticillium wilt is a plant disease characterized by the wilting and yellowing of leaves, often starting on one side of the plant or affecting one branch initially. The fungus invades the plant's vascular system, causing a blockage of water and nutrient transport. This leads to symptoms such as wilting, yellowing, and, eventually, death of the plant.
 
Crops susceptible to Verticillium wilt include tomatoes, potatoes, strawberries, cotton, and various ornamental plants. The management of Verticillium wilt often involves using resistant plant varieties, practicing crop rotation, and employing other cultural practices to reduce the pathogen's impact.