Should I use a fungicide?

Usually, improving airflow and removing infected leaves is enough. Fungicides are rarely needed if you manage the environment correctly.

Are these spots contagious to other plants?

Yes, fungal spores can spread through water splashes or wind. Keep infected plants away from others until the issue is resolved.

Mexican orange blossom: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the leaves for fuzzy growth or dark spots.
Check if the plant is crowded by other shrubs.
Look at the watering method to see if leaves are getting splashed.

Likely causes

Fungal Leaf Spot
Most likely
How to tell: Small brown or black spots appear on the leaves, often with a yellow halo.
What to do: Remove and dispose of all affected leaves to stop the spread. Improve airflow around the plant by pruning back crowded branches.
Overhead Watering
Possible
How to tell: Spots appear after you have been watering the foliage directly instead of the soil.
What to do: Direct water at the base of the plant only. Avoid getting the leaves wet during your watering routine.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mexican orange blossom

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

A few isolated spots are common, but if they cover most of the foliage, the plant will struggle to photosynthesize. It is normal to see some minor spotting after a long period of heavy rain.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure the plant has plenty of space for air to circulate and always water at the soil level.

Mexican orange blossom: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mexican orange blossom 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.

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Questions people ask

Should I use a fungicide?: Usually, improving airflow and removing infected leaves is enough. Fungicides are rarely needed if you manage the environment correctly.
Are these spots contagious to other plants?: Yes, fungal spores can spread through water splashes or wind. Keep infected plants away from others until the issue is resolved.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

What are these spots on my Mexican orange blossom leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your mexican orange blossom?