Can I use tap water for my Ctenanthe?

It is better to use filtered or distilled water. These plants are sensitive to the chlorine and fluoride often found in tap water.

Should I cut off leaves with spots?

Yes, it is best to trim off damaged leaves with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and prevents potential fungal spores from spreading.

Never Never Plant: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny webs or pests.
Check if you are getting water on the leaves when you irrigate.
Test your tap water or switch to filtered water for a few weeks.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Possible
How to tell: Small brown or black spots often appear with a yellow halo around them. This happens when water sits on the leaves for too long.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Keep the foliage dry when watering and ensure there is good air circulation around the plant.
Mineral burn
Possible
How to tell: Brown spots appear near the edges or tips of the leaves. This is caused by salts and chemicals found in standard tap water.
What to do: Switch to using distilled water, rainwater, or filtered water for your plant. Flush the soil with fresh water once a month to remove accumulated mineral salts.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your never never 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

Worry if the spots are spreading rapidly across multiple leaves. A single old leaf with a spot is usually just a natural part of the aging process.

Stopping it coming back

Always water at the base of the plant rather than over the top, and maintain consistent humidity levels.

Never Never Plant: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your never never 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

Can I use tap water for my Ctenanthe?: It is better to use filtered or distilled water. These plants are sensitive to the chlorine and fluoride often found in tap water.
Should I cut off leaves with spots?: Yes, it is best to trim off damaged leaves with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and prevents potential fungal spores from spreading.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Ctenanthe setosa have spots on its leaves?