Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Check if the spots are raised or flat.
- Look for a yellow halo around the spots.
- Ensure the leaves stay dry during watering.
Likely causes
Citrus canker
PossibleHow to tell: Small, raised, corky lesions appear on leaves, stems, and fruit. The spots often have a yellow halo around them.
What to do: Remove and destroy infected plant parts immediately. Avoid getting water on the leaves when you irrigate to prevent spreading the bacteria.
Fungal leaf spot
PossibleHow to tell: Dark brown or black spots appear on the leaves, often after periods of high humidity. The spots may grow and cause leaf drop.
What to do: Improve air circulation around the tree by pruning crowded branches. Apply a copper-based fungicide if the infection persists.
Find out what's wrong with your citrus
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 you suspect citrus canker, consult your local agricultural extension immediately as it is a regulated disease. Fungal spots are usually manageable with better airflow.
Stopping it coming back
Water at the base of the tree rather than overhead to keep foliage dry. Provide plenty of space between plants.
Citrus: spots? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your citrus 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
- Is it safe to eat fruit with spots?
- If the spots are from citrus canker, the fruit is safe to eat but may be unsightly. However, do not move the fruit to other areas to avoid spreading the bacteria.
- Do I need to spray the whole tree?
- Only if the infection is widespread. Start by removing the worst leaves and improving the environment before using chemical treatments.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Citrus
- Why are my citrus tree's leaves turning yellow?
- Why does my citrus tree have pests?
- Why is my citrus tree dropping its leaves?
- Why is my citrus tree not producing flowers?
- Why is my citrus tree growing long and leggy?
- Why are my citrus tree leaves curling?
- Why are my citrus tree leaves getting brown tips?
- Why is my citrus tree drooping?
- Why are my citrus tree's roots rotting?
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.