Should I use a fungicide?

Usually, removing the infected leaves and fixing the environment is enough. Fungicide is a last resort for severe cases.

Is it okay to mist the leaves?

It is better to avoid misting if you see spots. Use a pebble tray instead to keep humidity up without wetting the foliage.

Why does my coffee plant have brown spots? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is soggy or waterlogged.
Look at the leaves to see if they stay wet after misting.
Ensure the plant has good air circulation.

Likely causes

Fungal Leaf Spot
Most likely
How to tell: Small, dark spots appear on the leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo. This thrives when 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 getting water on the leaves when you water the soil.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: Spots appear alongside yellowing leaves and soft, mushy stems. The soil stays wet for too long after watering.
What to do: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your coffee plant

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

If the spots are spreading rapidly across the entire plant, it is a serious fungal issue. A single spot is usually manageable.

Stopping it coming back

Water only the soil, not the leaves, and keep the plant in a spot with good airflow.

Coffee plant: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your coffee plant 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 use a fungicide?: Usually, removing the infected leaves and fixing the environment is enough. Fungicide is a last resort for severe cases.
Is it okay to mist the leaves?: It is better to avoid misting if you see spots. Use a pebble tray instead to keep humidity up without wetting the foliage.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my coffee plant have brown spots?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your coffee plant?