Will the spots go away on their own?

No, the spots are permanent damage from the fungus. You must remove the affected parts to stop the disease from spreading to healthy growth.

Can I use a fungicide?

You can use a copper based fungicide if the infection is severe. Apply it according to the label instructions during the early spring to protect new growth.

Eared willow: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for fungal growth.
Remove any dead or spotted foliage immediately.
Clear away old leaves from the soil surface.

Likely causes

Willow Anthracnose
Most likely
How to tell: You will see dark, irregular spots on the leaves that may eventually cause the foliage to wither or fall off. It often spreads quickly during wet or humid weather.
What to do: Prune away all infected branches and leaves to stop the spread. Dispose of the clippings in the trash, not your compost pile. Keep the area around the base clean of fallen debris.
Poor Air Circulation
Possible
How to tell: The spots appear in dense areas of the plant where moisture gets trapped. The leaves stay damp long after watering or rain.
What to do: Thin out crowded branches to allow air to move through the center of the shrub. Ensure the plant is not crowded by other garden shrubs.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your eared willow

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

Worry if the spots cover more than half the leaf surface or if the entire branch begins to die back. Small, isolated spots are manageable with proper pruning.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to keep the leaves dry. Space your willows out to ensure good airflow.

Eared willow: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your eared willow 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

Will the spots go away on their own?: No, the spots are permanent damage from the fungus. You must remove the affected parts to stop the disease from spreading to healthy growth.
Can I use a fungicide?: You can use a copper based fungicide if the infection is severe. Apply it according to the label instructions during the early spring to protect new growth.

Guides to these causes

Anthracnose

Why does my eared willow have dark spots on its leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your eared willow?