Will the spots go away on their own?

No, the damaged leaves will not heal. You should remove them to keep the rest of the plant healthy.

Can I use a fungicide?

You can use a copper based fungicide if the infection is severe. Always follow the label instructions carefully.

Creeping Buttonweed: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the leaves for fuzzy growth or spreading dark patches.
Check the soil moisture level with your finger.
Assess the airflow in the area where the plant is growing.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small dark or black spots appearing on the leaves during humid weather. It often spreads when the foliage stays wet for too long.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve airflow by thinning out dense patches and avoid watering from overhead in the evening.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The soil stays soggy and the spots look waterlogged or mushy. This creates the perfect environment for fungus to thrive.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out slightly before watering again. Ensure your planting area has excellent drainage to prevent standing water.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your creeping buttonweed

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 patch, you need to act fast to save the planting. A few isolated spots are normal after heavy rain.

Stopping it coming back

Water only at the base of the plant early in the morning so the leaves dry quickly. Keep the area clear of debris to encourage good air circulation.

Creeping Buttonweed: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your creeping buttonweed 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

Will the spots go away on their own?: No, the damaged leaves will not heal. You should remove them to keep the rest of the plant healthy.
Can I use a fungicide?: You can use a copper based fungicide if the infection is severe. Always follow the label instructions carefully.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Creeping Buttonweed have dark spots?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your creeping buttonweed?