Should I cut off the spotted leaves?

Yes, removing damaged leaves helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth. Use clean, sharp scissors and wipe the blades with alcohol between cuts.

Are these spots contagious?

Fungal spores can travel through the air or water splashes. It is best to keep the affected plant away from others until the spots stop appearing.

Elephant Ear: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the spots are soft or mushy to the touch.
See if the spots have a yellow ring around the outside.
Note if you have been misting the leaves or getting them wet while watering.

Likely causes

Fungal Infection
Most likely
How to tell: You see dark, water soaked patches that might have a yellow halo around them. These often appear after the leaves stay wet for too long.
What to do: Trim off the affected leaves to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves when you irrigate.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The spots are accompanied by yellowing edges and generally soft foliage.
What to do: Adjust your watering schedule to let the soil dry out more between sessions. Ensure the plant is in a spot with bright, indirect light to help it process water.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your elephant ear

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 multiple leaves, it is a sign of a serious infection. Isolate the plant to protect your other greenery.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the leaves dry and ensure good airflow around the plant. Water only the soil, not the foliage, to prevent moisture from sitting on the leaves.

Elephant Ear: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your elephant ear 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 the spotted leaves?: Yes, removing damaged leaves helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth. Use clean, sharp scissors and wipe the blades with alcohol between cuts.
Are these spots contagious?: Fungal spores can travel through the air or water splashes. It is best to keep the affected plant away from others until the spots stop appearing.

What are these dark spots on my Elephant Ear leaves?