Can I save a plant with orange rust?

If the infection is widespread, it is best to remove and destroy the plant to protect others. It is very difficult to cure once it becomes systemic.

Is this fungus harmful to me?

No, orange rust is specific to plants and does not affect humans or pets.

Southern dewberry: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the undersides of the leaves for bright orange, powdery dust.
Check if the spots are circular or irregular in shape.
Observe if the infection is spreading to new canes.

Likely causes

Orange Rust
Most likely
How to tell: Bright orange, powdery spores appear on the undersides of the leaves. The leaves may eventually become distorted or stunted.
What to do: Dig up and destroy the whole infected plant, including the roots, because the fungus lives inside the entire plant and removing only the infected canes will not stop it. Do not compost the infected material, as the spores can survive.
Fungal leaf spot
Possible
How to tell: Dark or brown spots with yellow halos appear on the foliage. These are usually caused by excess moisture on the leaves.
What to do: Improve air circulation around the plant by pruning crowded canes. Avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your southern dewberry

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

Orange rust is a serious systemic disease that often requires removing the entire plant if it spreads to the roots. If you see bright orange spores, act fast.

Stopping it coming back

Plant your dewberries in a location with excellent air circulation and full sun. Keep the area around the base of the plant free of debris.

Southern dewberry: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your southern dewberry 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

Can I save a plant with orange rust?: If the infection is widespread, it is best to remove and destroy the plant to protect others. It is very difficult to cure once it becomes systemic.
Is this fungus harmful to me?: No, orange rust is specific to plants and does not affect humans or pets.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why are there orange spots on my Southern dewberry?