Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Inspect the leaves for fuzzy growth.
- Check the water in the tray for cleanliness.
- Move the plant to a brighter, drier location.
Likely causes
Fungal growth
Most likelyHow to tell: Fuzzy or dark patches appearing on the leaves or the base.
What to do: Take the plant out of the water and gently brush off the mold with a soft, dry brush. Let it dry out completely in a sunny, airy spot for one week.
Stagnant water
PossibleHow to tell: The water in the tray looks cloudy or has an oily film.
What to do: Change the water in the tray every 2 days to keep it fresh. Scrub the tray with soap and water before refilling.
Find out what's wrong with your rose of jericho
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.
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When to worry
If the spots are widespread and the plant is disintegrating, it is likely suffering from advanced decay. Small, isolated spots are usually manageable.
Stopping it coming back
Change the water frequently and ensure the plant has plenty of space for air to move around it.
Rose of Jericho: spots? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your rose of jericho 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Should I wash the plant?
- You can gently rinse it under cool running water, but make sure to dry it thoroughly afterward.
- Will the spots go away?
- The existing spots may remain, but keeping the plant dry will prevent them from spreading further.
More problems with Rose of Jericho
Back to the Rose of Jericho guide
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.