Should I cut off all the spotted leaves?

Yes, removing infected leaves helps reduce the amount of fungus on the plant. Be sure to throw them in the trash, not your compost pile.

Will the spots go away?

The existing spots will not disappear, but the new growth should be healthy once you control the fungus. Keep an eye on new leaves to ensure they stay clean.

Chinese privet: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for dark spots on the leaf surfaces.
Check if the soil is staying soggy for too long.
Observe if you are wetting the leaves when you water.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Most likely
How to tell: You will see dark, circular or irregular spots on the leaves. These spots may have a yellow halo around them.
What to do: Remove and dispose of all infected leaves to stop the spread. Apply a copper based fungicide to the remaining foliage according to the label instructions.
Overhead watering
Possible
How to tell: The spots appear after you have been watering the leaves directly. Wet foliage is a breeding ground for fungus.
What to do: Switch to watering only at the base of the plant. Ensure you water early in the morning so any accidental splashes dry quickly in the sun.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chinese privet

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

A few spots are normal in wet weather, but if the entire plant is covered or leaves are falling off, it is a serious infection. Act fast to prevent widespread defoliation.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant only and keep the foliage dry. Improve air circulation by thinning out dense branches.

Chinese privet: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chinese privet 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, removing infected leaves helps reduce the amount of fungus on the plant. Be sure to throw them in the trash, not your compost pile.
Will the spots go away?: The existing spots will not disappear, but the new growth should be healthy once you control the fungus. Keep an eye on new leaves to ensure they stay clean.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Chinese privet have spots on its leaves?