Should I use a fungicide?

Fungicides are rarely necessary for home gardens. Improving airflow and removing infected leaves is usually enough to stop the spread.

Will these spots go away?

No, the damaged spots will remain on the leaves. Focus on protecting the new, healthy growth instead.

Mock orange: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the leaves for dark spots or yellow halos.
Check if the plant is crowded by other nearby shrubs.
Look for fallen leaves around the base of the plant.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Most likely
How to tell: You will see dark, circular, or irregular spots that may have a yellow halo around them. These spots often appear after periods of heavy rain.
What to do: Prune away the most affected leaves to improve airflow. Clean up any fallen leaves from the ground to prevent the fungus from spreading.
Bacterial infection
Possible
How to tell: Spots may appear water-soaked or have a greasy look. They can spread quickly during warm, wet weather.
What to do: Remove infected branches using sterilized shears. Always disinfect your tools with rubbing alcohol between cuts to avoid spreading bacteria.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mock orange

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

It is normal to see a few spots after a rainy season, but you should worry if the spots are spreading rapidly or causing significant leaf drop. If the plant looks mostly healthy, just keep an eye on it.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to keep the leaves dry. Prune your Mock orange annually to ensure good air circulation through the center of the shrub.

Mock orange: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mock orange 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?: Fungicides are rarely necessary for home gardens. Improving airflow and removing infected leaves is usually enough to stop the spread.
Will these spots go away?: No, the damaged spots will remain on the leaves. Focus on protecting the new, healthy growth instead.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

What are these spots on my Mock orange leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your mock orange?