Should I cut off all the spotted leaves?

Yes, removing infected leaves helps prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the plant.

Is this disease fatal?

It is rarely fatal if caught early, but it can make the plant look unsightly if left untreated.

What are these spots on my Kohuhu leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the spots are spreading rapidly.
Ensure the plant has enough space from other shrubs for airflow.
Feel the soil to see if it stays wet for too long.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Most likely
How to tell: Dark brown or black spots with yellow halos appearing on older leaves.
What to do: Remove and dispose of all infected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve air circulation by thinning out crowded branches and avoid overhead watering.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: Soft, brown spots that look waterlogged, often starting near the base of the plant.
What to do: Check the soil moisture and ensure the top inch is dry before watering again. Adjust your schedule to every 7 to 14 days depending on the season.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your kohuhu

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

A few spots are normal in wet weather, but if the entire plant is covered or leaves are falling off, it needs immediate treatment.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves to keep the foliage dry.

Kohuhu: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your kohuhu 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 cut off all the spotted leaves?: Yes, removing infected leaves helps prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the plant.
Is this disease fatal?: It is rarely fatal if caught early, but it can make the plant look unsightly if left untreated.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

What are these spots on my Kohuhu leaves?