Should I cut off the spotted leaves?

If the spots are small, you can leave them. If they are large or spreading, it is best to trim the affected leaf off with sterile shears to stop the spread.

Is this a disease that will kill the whole plant?

It can be if left untreated, but it is usually manageable. Improving your watering technique and airflow usually stops the problem.

Calathea 'Cobra': spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the leaves are staying wet after watering.
Look at the soil to see if it is waterlogged.
Ensure the pot has holes in the bottom for excess water to escape.

Likely causes

Overhead Watering
Most likely
How to tell: Spots appear after you have watered the plant from above.
What to do: Only water the soil directly at the base of the plant. If you get water on the leaves, wipe them dry immediately with a soft cloth.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: The soil stays soggy and the spots look mushy or have a yellow halo.
What to do: Repot the plant into a container with drainage holes using a well draining potting mix. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your calathea 'cobra'

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 or turning mushy, you need to act fast to prevent the infection from killing the leaf.

Stopping it coming back

Always water at the soil level and ensure the plant has good airflow to keep the foliage dry.

Calathea 'Cobra': spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your calathea 'cobra' 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 the spotted leaves?: If the spots are small, you can leave them. If they are large or spreading, it is best to trim the affected leaf off with sterile shears to stop the spread.
Is this a disease that will kill the whole plant?: It can be if left untreated, but it is usually manageable. Improving your watering technique and airflow usually stops the problem.

What are these dark spots on my Cobra Calathea leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your calathea 'cobra'?

Likely causes

Overhead Watering

Poor Drainage

Find out what's wrong with your calathea 'cobra'

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

Calathea 'Cobra': spots? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

More problems with Calathea 'Cobra'