Should I use a fungicide?

Fungicides are rarely necessary for Rose of Sharon. Good sanitation and airflow are much more effective.

Will the spots go away?

No, the existing spots will remain until the leaf falls off. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy.

Rose of Sharon: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the spots are appearing after a long rainy period.
Look at the base of the plant to see if you are watering the leaves.
Inspect the center of the shrub for dense, crowded branches.

Likely causes

Leaf Spot Fungi
Most likely
How to tell: You will notice dark, circular, or irregular spots appearing on the leaves during periods of high humidity or frequent rain. The spots may eventually cause the leaf to turn yellow and drop.
What to do: Prune away the most heavily infected branches to improve airflow through the center of the plant. Clean up all fallen leaves from the ground to prevent the fungus from overwintering.
Overhead Watering
Possible
How to tell: If you water from above, the leaves stay wet for too long, creating the perfect environment for fungal spores. This often results in spots appearing on the lower foliage first.
What to do: Switch to watering at the base of the plant using a soaker hose or drip irrigation. Always water in the early morning so any accidental splashes have time to dry in the sun.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your rose of sharon

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

It is normal to see a few spots late in the season as the plant prepares for dormancy. Worry only if the spotting causes significant leaf loss before the end of summer.

Stopping it coming back

Space your plants properly to ensure good air circulation and always water the soil, not the leaves.

Rose of Sharon: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your rose of sharon 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 use a fungicide?: Fungicides are rarely necessary for Rose of Sharon. Good sanitation and airflow are much more effective.
Will the spots go away?: No, the existing spots will remain until the leaf falls off. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Rose of Sharon have spots on its leaves?