Check these first
- Look for tiny beetles or larvae on the leaves.
- Check if the leaves are staying wet after watering.
- Ensure the plant has good airflow.
Likely causes
Fungal Leaf Spot
Most likelyHow to tell: Small brown or black spots appear on the leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo around them.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves to prevent the fungus from spreading. Improve air circulation around the plant by spacing it away from other foliage. Avoid getting water on the leaves when you irrigate.
Eucalyptus Weevil Damage
PossibleHow to tell: You will see irregular holes or skeletonized patches where the beetles have fed on the leaf tissue.
What to do: Inspect the leaves closely for small beetles or larvae. Pick them off by hand if the infestation is small. For larger issues, use an insecticidal soap spray on the foliage.
Find out what's wrong with your eucalyptus
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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
When to worry
Small, isolated spots are usually manageable, but if the spots cover most of the foliage, the plant's health is at risk. Treat the issue as soon as you notice it to prevent widespread damage.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the foliage dry and ensure the plant is in a well ventilated area with plenty of sun.
Eucalyptus: spots? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your eucalyptus 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I use a fungicide?
- You can use a copper based fungicide if the spots continue to spread. Always follow the instructions on the label.
- Should I prune the spotted leaves?
- Yes, pruning off heavily spotted leaves helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth. Dispose of the clippings in the trash, not your compost.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Eucalyptus
- Why are there holes in my eucalyptus leaves?
- Why is my eucalyptus looking sick and wilting?
- Why is my eucalyptus plant growing so leggy?
- Why are my eucalyptus leaf tips turning brown?
- Why are my eucalyptus leaves turning yellow?
- Why is my eucalyptus plant drooping?
- Why is my eucalyptus losing its leaves?
- Why are my eucalyptus leaves curling?
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.

