Should I cut off all leaves with spots?

Yes, it is best to remove them to prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the plant. Use clean scissors and discard the clippings in the trash.

Can I mist my Copperleaf to prevent spots?

No, misting actually encourages fungal growth on the leaves. It is better to use a pebble tray or a humidifier to increase humidity.

Pencil flower: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for webbing or tiny moving dots.
Check if water is splashing onto the leaves during watering.
Ensure the plant has enough space between it and other plants for air to circulate.

Likely causes

Fungal Leaf Spot
Possible
How to tell: You will see small brown or black circles with yellow halos on the foliage. These spots often spread if the plant stays wet for too long.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve airflow around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves when you irrigate.
Spider Mites
Possible
How to tell: Tiny yellow or white stippling marks appear across the leaf surface. You might notice fine webbing between the stems.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites. Spray the plant with neem oil once a week for 3 weeks until the pests are gone.

Find out what's wrong with your pencil flower

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the spots are spreading rapidly to new growth, you should treat the plant immediately. A few old leaves with minor spots are normal as the plant ages.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the foliage dry and ensure your plant is in a spot with good natural air movement.

Keep your pencil flower healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I cut off all leaves with spots?: Yes, it is best to remove them to prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the plant. Use clean scissors and discard the clippings in the trash.
Can I mist my Copperleaf to prevent spots?: No, misting actually encourages fungal growth on the leaves. It is better to use a pebble tray or a humidifier to increase humidity.

Why does my Copperleaf have spots on its leaves?