Will the spots go away on their own?

No, fungal spots will not disappear. You must remove the damaged leaves to prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy growth.

Is this disease fatal?

It can be if left untreated for a long time. With quick removal of infected parts and better airflow, your plant should recover.

Flamingo Willow: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the leaves for dark or sunken spots.
Check if the leaves are staying wet for long periods.
Look for fallen leaves around the base of the plant.

Likely causes

Willow Anthracnose
Most likely
How to tell: Dark brown or black spots appear on the leaves, often leading to premature leaf drop.
What to do: Remove and dispose of all infected leaves immediately. Apply a copper based fungicide according to the label instructions to stop the spread.
Overhead Watering
Possible
How to tell: Spots appear after you have been watering the foliage directly.
What to do: Water only at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry. Ensure there is good air circulation around your willow to help it dry out.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your flamingo 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

If the spots are spreading to the stems or causing heavy leaf drop, you need to act fast. Small, isolated spots are manageable with proper care.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the soil level and provide plenty of space between plants for airflow.

Flamingo Willow: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your flamingo 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, fungal spots will not disappear. You must remove the damaged leaves to prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy growth.
Is this disease fatal?: It can be if left untreated for a long time. With quick removal of infected parts and better airflow, your plant should recover.

Guides to these causes

Anthracnose

Why are there spots on my Flamingo Willow leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your flamingo willow?