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False daisy · Eclipta prostrata

What are these spots on my false daisy leaves?

It is less common for a false daisy to develop spots, which usually points to fungal issues caused by poor airflow or splashing water on the foliage. Check the leaves for signs of moisture sitting on the surface for too long.

spots on a plant
Photo: Scot Nelson, CC0

Check these first

  1. Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for small insects.
  2. Check if the leaves stay wet for long periods after watering.
  3. Ensure the plant has enough space for air to circulate.

Likely causes

  1. Fungal leaf spot

    Most likely

    How to tell: Small brown or black circles appear on the leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo.

    What to do: Remove the affected leaves to stop the spread. Improve airflow around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves when you water.

  2. Aphid damage

    Possible

    How to tell: Tiny clusters of insects appear on new growth, leaving behind sticky residue that can attract mold.

    What to do: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use a mild insecticidal soap. Repeat the treatment every 5 days until the aphids are gone.

Find out what's wrong with your false daisy

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 the spots are spreading quickly across the entire plant, it could lead to significant leaf loss. Small, isolated spots are usually manageable with better care.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant to keep foliage dry and ensure good air circulation.

Keep your false daisy 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.

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Questions people ask

Should I mist my false daisy?
No, misting can encourage fungal spots on the leaves.
Are these spots harmful?
They can weaken the plant if left untreated, so it is best to remove damaged leaves.

More problems with False daisy

Back to the False daisy guide

This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.