Should I use a fungicide?

Usually, you do not need one. Simply removing the bad leaves and fixing your watering habits is enough to stop the problem.

Are these spots contagious?

If they are fungal, they can spread through water splashes. Keep the plant isolated until the spots stop appearing.

Why does my Ixora have spots on its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny insects.
Check if the spots are mushy or dry.
Look at your watering habits to see if leaves stay wet.

Likely causes

Fungal Leaf Spot
Possible
How to tell: You will see small dark or reddish brown circles with yellow halos on the foliage. These spots often grow larger if the plant stays wet for too long.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve airflow around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves when you irrigate.
Sunburn
Possible
How to tell: These spots appear as bleached or scorched patches on the leaves that were directly hit by harsh afternoon sun. They usually look dry and brittle rather than mushy.
What to do: Move your Ixora to a spot with bright, indirect light or filtered morning sun. Trim off the damaged leaves if they look unsightly.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your jungle geranium

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

Worry if the spots are spreading rapidly across the entire plant. A few isolated spots are usually just a minor reaction to environmental changes.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the foliage dry by watering at the base of the plant and ensure there is plenty of space between your plants for air to circulate.

Jungle Geranium: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your jungle geranium 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?: Usually, you do not need one. Simply removing the bad leaves and fixing your watering habits is enough to stop the problem.
Are these spots contagious?: If they are fungal, they can spread through water splashes. Keep the plant isolated until the spots stop appearing.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Ixora have spots on its leaves?