Should I cut off all spotted leaves?

Yes, it is best to remove them so the plant can focus energy on healthy growth. Use clean scissors.

Is this caused by too much light?

No, light issues usually cause bleaching or yellowing. Spots are almost always related to moisture or pathogens.

Chinese Evergreen: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the leaves are staying wet after watering.
Ensure the plant is not in a stagnant, humid corner.
Remove any leaves that have large, spreading spots.

Likely causes

Fungal Infection
Most likely
How to tell: Dark brown or black spots with a yellow halo around them.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves to stop the spread. Improve airflow around the plant and avoid misting the leaves.
Watering Issues
Possible
How to tell: Spots appear after you have been splashing water on the leaves during watering.
What to do: Water at the base of the plant only. Use a watering can with a narrow spout to keep the foliage dry.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chinese evergreen

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 across every leaf, the plant may need a fungicide treatment.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the leaves dry and ensure good air circulation in your home.

Chinese Evergreen: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chinese evergreen and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

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

Questions people ask

Should I cut off all spotted leaves?: Yes, it is best to remove them so the plant can focus energy on healthy growth. Use clean scissors.
Is this caused by too much light?: No, light issues usually cause bleaching or yellowing. Spots are almost always related to moisture or pathogens.

Why are there dark spots on my Chinese Evergreen leaves?