Should I throw the plant away if it has rust?

Not necessarily, but you must be diligent about removing infected parts. If the infection is severe, it is often safer to discard the plant to protect your others.

Does rust mean I am watering too much?

Not always, but high humidity and wet leaves provide the perfect environment for rust to grow. Keep the foliage dry to prevent spores from germinating.

Creeping Oxalis: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the undersides of the leaves for powdery orange bumps.
Smell the soil to see if it is sour or stagnant.
Examine the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.

Likely causes

Rust fungus
Most likely
How to tell: You will see raised orange or reddish brown pustules on the undersides of the leaves. The tops of the leaves may show yellow or brown discoloration.
What to do: Remove and destroy all infected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the foliage when you irrigate.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: Leaves may develop dark, water soaked spots that turn mushy. This usually happens when the soil stays soggy for too long.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your creeping oxalis

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

Rust is serious because it can weaken the plant and stunt its growth. If most of the foliage is affected, you may need to prune the plant back significantly.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant instead of overhead to keep the leaves dry. Provide plenty of space between plants for good airflow.

Creeping Oxalis: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your creeping oxalis 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 throw the plant away if it has rust?: Not necessarily, but you must be diligent about removing infected parts. If the infection is severe, it is often safer to discard the plant to protect your others.
Does rust mean I am watering too much?: Not always, but high humidity and wet leaves provide the perfect environment for rust to grow. Keep the foliage dry to prevent spores from germinating.

Guides to these causes

Rust

What are these orange spots on my Creeping Oxalis?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your creeping oxalis?