Abstract A description is provided for Nectria coccinea var. faginata . Information is included on the disease caused by the organism, its transmission, geographical distribution, and hosts. HOSTS: Fagus grandifolia (beech) DISEASE: Beech bark disease in association with the scale insect Cryptococcus fagi [Cryptococcus fagisuga] . GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION: Canadian Maritime Provinces and eastern USA (Maine, Massachussetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania) where it is reported to be spreading south (Shigo; 50, 1388). TRANSMISSION: By wind in cool wet weather; spores are discharged only in moist conditions but they may subsequently dry and be disseminated by wind.