Should I cut off all spotted leaves?

Yes, removing infected leaves helps prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the plant. Always clean your scissors with alcohol between cuts.

Can I use a fungicide?

You can, but it is better to fix the environment first. Most fungal issues on this plant resolve once you improve air circulation and reduce leaf wetness.

Italian arum: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for fungal growth.
Check if the soil is staying too wet for too long.
Ensure the plant is not crowded by other foliage.

Likely causes

Leaf Spot Fungus
Possible
How to tell: You will see small, dark brown or black circular spots that may have a yellow halo. These often appear when the leaves stay wet for too long.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry.
Bacterial Blight
Possible
How to tell: This shows up as water soaked spots that turn dark and mushy. It often happens if the plant is crowded in a damp, stagnant area.
What to do: Cut away the damaged parts using sterilized shears. Ensure the plant has enough space between neighbors to allow for proper airflow.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your italian arum

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

Worry if the spots are spreading rapidly across the entire plant. A few small spots on older leaves are usually just a sign of minor environmental stress.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves to keep them dry. Provide good spacing to encourage airflow.

Italian arum: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your italian arum 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, removing infected leaves helps prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the plant. Always clean your scissors with alcohol between cuts.
Can I use a fungicide?: You can, but it is better to fix the environment first. Most fungal issues on this plant resolve once you improve air circulation and reduce leaf wetness.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Italian arum have spots on its leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your italian arum?