Can I just pick off the spotted leaves?

Yes, removing infected leaves can help slow down the spread of fungi or pests. Just be sure to dispose of them in the trash, not your compost.

Are these spots contagious to other plants?

If it is a fungal issue, it can spread to nearby plants in damp conditions. It is best to isolate the affected plant until it recovers.

European privet: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects.
Check if the leaves are staying wet after rain or watering.
Look for any webbing or sticky residue on the stems.

Likely causes

Privet Thrips
Most likely
How to tell: These tiny insects cause leaves to curl and develop brown, mottled spots. You might see the insects themselves if you look closely at the leaf undersides.
What to do: Wash the leaves with a gentle stream of water to dislodge the pests. Use an insecticidal soap spray every 7 days if the infestation persists.
Fungal Leaf Spot
Possible
How to tell: This is less common for this plant, but it appears as dark, circular spots on the foliage. It usually happens when the leaves stay wet for too long.
What to do: Prune away the most heavily infected branches to improve airflow. Avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european 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

If the spots are spreading rapidly and causing the leaves to wither, you need to treat it right away. A few isolated spots are usually not a major threat.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the foliage dry by watering at the base and ensure the plant has enough space for air to circulate.

European privet: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european 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

Can I just pick off the spotted leaves?: Yes, removing infected leaves can help slow down the spread of fungi or pests. Just be sure to dispose of them in the trash, not your compost.
Are these spots contagious to other plants?: If it is a fungal issue, it can spread to nearby plants in damp conditions. It is best to isolate the affected plant until it recovers.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

What are these spots on my European privet leaves?