Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Inspect the undersides of the leaves for orange dust.
- Check the soil for signs of waterlogging.
- Look for signs of poor airflow around the plant.
Likely causes
Fungal Rust
Most likelyHow to tell: Small orange or brown powdery spots appear on the undersides of the leaves.
What to do: Remove and discard the affected leaves immediately. Improve air circulation around the plant to keep the foliage dry.
Overwatering
PossibleHow to tell: Dark, mushy spots appear on the leaves or stems.
What to do: Let the soil dry out completely for a few days. Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent standing water.
Find out what's wrong with your wood sorrel
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.
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When to worry
If the spots are spreading rapidly across the whole plant, it is a serious infection. Small isolated spots can be managed by pruning.
Stopping it coming back
Water only at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry. Provide good airflow in your home.
Wood sorrel: spots? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wood sorrel 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I save leaves with spots?
- It is best to remove them to prevent the fungus from spreading. The plant will grow back quickly.
- Is this harmful to pets?
- Yes, Oxalis contains oxalates which are toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Wood sorrel
- Why is my Purple Shamrock drooping?
- Why are my oxalis leaves turning yellow?
- How do I get rid of pests on my oxalis?
- How do I fix root rot in my oxalis?
- Why is my oxalis growing so tall and leggy?
- Why are my Purple Shamrock leaves curling?
- Why are my oxalis leaves getting brown tips?
- Why is my oxalis dropping its leaves?
- Why is my Oxalis not blooming?
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.