Will the spots kill my tree?

No, leaf spot is generally harmless to the overall health of a mature tree. It just looks a bit messy.

Can I spray the leaves with fungicide?

You can, but it is rarely necessary. Good cleanup and proper watering habits are much more effective.

Catalpa: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for spots on the lower leaves first.
Check if the leaves stay wet long after watering.
Examine the ground for fallen, infected leaves.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Most likely
How to tell: You will notice distinct brown or black spots on the leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo. The spots may grow together and cause the leaf to drop prematurely.
What to do: Rake up and dispose of all fallen leaves to prevent the fungus from overwintering in the soil. Improve air circulation by thinning out crowded branches during the dormant season.
Overhead watering
Possible
How to tell: Spots appear mostly on the lower leaves where water splashes back from the soil. The foliage stays wet for too long after sunset.
What to do: Switch to watering at the base of the tree using a soaker hose or drip irrigation. Always water in the early morning so the leaves have time to dry out completely.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your catalpa

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

It is mostly a cosmetic issue, but if the tree loses more than half its leaves, it may struggle to store energy for next year. Treat it if you notice the problem spreading rapidly.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area under the tree clear of debris and avoid wetting the leaves when you water.

Catalpa: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your catalpa 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

Will the spots kill my tree?: No, leaf spot is generally harmless to the overall health of a mature tree. It just looks a bit messy.
Can I spray the leaves with fungicide?: You can, but it is rarely necessary. Good cleanup and proper watering habits are much more effective.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Southern catalpa have brown spots on its leaves?