Garden Pests and Diseases: Leaf Elephantiasis??!!!, 4 by Stacycmc

Stacycmc wrote:
Ok, so several of my bushes have what looks like elephantitis for plants. Some of the leaves become abnormally thick and fat looking. Eventually it kills the entire end of the stem after it looks to have infected the leaf and those on the same sprig. When dying or after, they all turn black and have a blank powdery mold-like substance that will get on your hands if you touch them. I have no clue what it is or how to treat it so was hoping someone could help identify the issue so I would know what actions I should take.

Right now I have noticed it on a few of my azalea leaves as well as several of my camellias. Attached are pics from both plants, both before they die and turn black and after.

Any help is appreciated.

Stacy