Will the spots go away on their own?

No, the spots are permanent damage to the leaf tissue. As the palm grows, you can trim off the affected fronds to keep the tree looking tidy.

Can I use neem oil on these spots?

Neem oil can help if the spots are caused by a mild fungal issue or pests. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Canary Island date palm: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the fronds for tiny insects.
Check if the spots are concentrated on one side of the plant.
Feel the soil to see if it stays wet for too long.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Possible
How to tell: You will see small, dark brown or black spots that may have a yellow halo around them. These often appear after periods of high humidity or overhead watering.
What to do: Prune away the most heavily affected fronds to improve airflow. Avoid overhead watering and keep the foliage dry. Apply a copper based fungicide if the spots continue to spread.
Sunburn
Possible
How to tell: These spots look like bleached or scorched patches on the leaves that were recently exposed to intense, direct light. It happens most often when a plant is moved from a shaded area to full sun too quickly.
What to do: Acclimate your palm to full sun slowly over 2 to 3 weeks. Provide temporary shade during the hottest part of the day while it adjusts. The damaged spots will not heal, so wait for new growth to replace them.

Find out what's wrong with your canary island date palm

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

Be concerned if the spots are accompanied by a foul smell or if the entire crown begins to collapse, as this could indicate a serious infection. Minor cosmetic spots on older, lower fronds are usually nothing to worry about.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the foliage dry by watering at the base of the tree and ensure the palm has plenty of space for air to circulate.

Keep your canary island date palm healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Will the spots go away on their own?: No, the spots are permanent damage to the leaf tissue. As the palm grows, you can trim off the affected fronds to keep the tree looking tidy.
Can I use neem oil on these spots?: Neem oil can help if the spots are caused by a mild fungal issue or pests. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Why are there spots on my Canary Island date palm?