Will these spots kill my tree?

Usually, no. While it looks unsightly, a healthy European Hornbeam can handle a fungal infection without long term damage.

Should I prune the whole tree?

Only prune out the heavily infected branches. Avoid heavy pruning during the growing season as it can stress the tree.

Why does my European Hornbeam have spots on its leaves?

Check these first

Examine the spots for fuzzy fungal growth.
Check if the spots are concentrated on lower, wetter branches.
Look for fallen leaves showing similar markings.

Likely causes

Fungal Leaf Spot
Most likely
How to tell: Small brown or black spots appear on the foliage, often with a yellow halo around them. This is most common after periods of heavy rain.
What to do: Remove and destroy all infected leaves to prevent spores from spreading. Improve air circulation around the tree by thinning out crowded branches.
Anthracnose
Possible
How to tell: Irregular brown blotches appear along the leaf veins or margins. The leaves may eventually curl or drop prematurely.
What to do: Clean up all fallen leaves beneath the tree in autumn to remove overwintering fungi. Apply a copper based fungicide in early spring if the problem persists year after year.

When to worry

It is normal to see a few spots after a very rainy season. Worry if the tree loses more than 20 percent of its leaves or if the spots appear every single year.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the tree rather than overhead to keep the foliage dry. Keep the area under the canopy clear of debris.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your hornbeam.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf 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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Questions people ask

Will these spots kill my tree?: Usually, no. While it looks unsightly, a healthy European Hornbeam can handle a fungal infection without long term damage.
Should I prune the whole tree?: Only prune out the heavily infected branches. Avoid heavy pruning during the growing season as it can stress the tree.