Will these spots kill my plant?

Usually not, but they can weaken the plant if left unchecked. Treat the cause early to keep your Datura healthy.

Should I cut off all the spotted leaves?

Yes, it is best to remove them to prevent the issue from spreading to healthy growth. Just make sure to use clean scissors.

Sacred Datura: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny moving specks.
Check if the spots are soft or have a fuzzy texture.
Look for webbing near the leaf joints.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Possible
How to tell: You will see tiny white or yellow stippling on the leaves and perhaps some fine webbing between stems. These pests thrive in the hot, dry conditions this plant loves.
What to do: Spray the leaves thoroughly with a strong stream of water to knock the mites off. Follow up with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until the infestation is gone.
Fungal Leaf Spot
Possible
How to tell: These appear as dark, irregular patches that may have a yellow halo around them. They often show up if the foliage stays wet for too long after rain or overhead watering.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Avoid watering from above and ensure the plant has plenty of space for air to circulate.

Find out what's wrong with your sacred datura

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 the entire plant. A few small marks on older leaves are usually nothing to stress about.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the foliage dry by watering at the base of the plant and ensure it has plenty of sun and airflow.

Keep your sacred datura healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will these spots kill my plant?: Usually not, but they can weaken the plant if left unchecked. Treat the cause early to keep your Datura healthy.
Should I cut off all the spotted leaves?: Yes, it is best to remove them to prevent the issue from spreading to healthy growth. Just make sure to use clean scissors.

Why does my Datura wrightii have spots on its leaves?