Is powdery mildew fatal?

It is rarely fatal but can weaken the plant over time. Treat it early to keep the plant looking healthy.

Can I compost the spotted leaves?

It is better to throw them in the trash to prevent fungal spores from spreading in your garden.

Why does my Cutleaf coneflower have spots? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for white powdery growth on the leaves.
Check if the spots are brown or black with yellow edges.
Ensure the plant has enough space from other plants.

Likely causes

Powdery Mildew
Most likely
How to tell: A white, dusty coating appears on the surface of the leaves.
What to do: Improve air circulation by thinning out crowded stems. Apply a fungicide or a mix of water and baking soda if the infection is severe.
Fungal Leaf Spot
Possible
How to tell: Small brown or black spots with yellow halos appear on the foliage.
What to do: Remove and dispose of the infected leaves to stop the spread. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your cutleaf coneflower

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

Small amounts of spots are common in late summer, but if the whole plant is covered and dying, take action.

Stopping it coming back

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

Cutleaf coneflower: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your cutleaf coneflower 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

Is powdery mildew fatal?: It is rarely fatal but can weaken the plant over time. Treat it early to keep the plant looking healthy.
Can I compost the spotted leaves?: It is better to throw them in the trash to prevent fungal spores from spreading in your garden.

Why does my Cutleaf coneflower have spots?

Check these first

Likely causes

Powdery Mildew

Fungal Leaf Spot

Find out what's wrong with your cutleaf coneflower

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

Cutleaf coneflower: spots? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

Guides to these causes

More problems with Cutleaf coneflower