Will these spots go away?

No, the damaged spots will remain, but you can prevent new ones from forming.

Is this disease contagious to other plants?

Yes, fungal spores can spread to nearby plants through water splashes or wind.

Chinese holly: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the leaves for dark, circular markings.
Check if the plant is crowded by other shrubs.
Look for signs of moisture lingering on the foliage.

Likely causes

Leaf Spot Fungus
Most likely
How to tell: You will see dark, circular spots that may have a lighter center. These often appear after periods of heavy rain or high humidity.
What to do: Remove and destroy all affected leaves to stop the spread. Apply a copper based fungicide spray according to the label directions.
Poor Air Circulation
Possible
How to tell: The spots appear on the inner leaves where the plant is very dense. The foliage stays wet for too long after watering.
What to do: Prune back some of the inner branches to allow air to move through the center of the plant. Avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chinese holly

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 cover more than half of the leaves, the plant is under significant stress. Small, isolated spots are usually manageable.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves and keep the plant pruned for good airflow.

Chinese holly: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chinese holly 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

Will these spots go away?: No, the damaged spots will remain, but you can prevent new ones from forming.
Is this disease contagious to other plants?: Yes, fungal spores can spread to nearby plants through water splashes or wind.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

What are these dark spots on my Chinese holly?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your chinese holly?