Should I cut off all the spotted leaves?

Yes, it is best to remove them to prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the tree. Use clean, sharp scissors for each cut.

Can I use a fungicide?

You can use a copper based fungicide if the problem persists after improving airflow. Always follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Banyan tree: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny insects.
Feel the soil to see if it is soggy.
Check if the leaves are staying wet after watering.

Likely causes

Fungal Leaf Spot
Possible
How to tell: You will see dark brown or black circular spots that may have a yellow halo around them. These often appear when leaves stay wet for too long.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid misting the foliage directly.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The spots may appear soft or water soaked, often accompanied by yellowing edges. The soil will feel consistently damp or soggy.
What to do: Let the top two inches of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your banyan tree

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 canopy, you should act quickly to save the plant. A few isolated spots on older leaves are usually nothing to worry about.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the leaves dry and ensure the plant is in a spot with good airflow to prevent moisture from sitting on the foliage.

Banyan tree: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your banyan tree 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

Should I cut off all the spotted leaves?: Yes, it is best to remove them to prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the tree. Use clean, sharp scissors for each cut.
Can I use a fungicide?: You can use a copper based fungicide if the problem persists after improving airflow. Always follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Ficus benghalensis have spots on its leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your banyan tree?