Can I eat rosemary with powdery mildew?

It is best to avoid eating leaves that have visible fungal growth. Wash any unaffected parts thoroughly before using them.

Does this spread to other plants?

Yes, powdery mildew spores can travel through the air to other susceptible plants. Isolate your rosemary until the spots are gone.

Rosemary: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the white spots rub off easily with your finger.
Ensure the plant is not crowded by other plants.
Verify the plant is receiving at least six hours of direct sun.

Likely causes

Poor Air Circulation
Most likely
How to tell: White, powdery patches appear on the leaves, especially in crowded areas of the plant.
What to do: Prune back some of the inner stems to allow air to flow through the center of the plant. Move the plant to a spot with better natural ventilation.
High Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The plant is kept in a damp bathroom or a room with very little breeze.
What to do: Move the plant to a drier, sunnier location. Ensure you are not misting the plant or getting the foliage wet when you water.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your rosemary

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 fungus covers most of the foliage, it can weaken the plant significantly. A few small spots can usually be managed with better placement.

Stopping it coming back

Give your rosemary plenty of space and ensure it gets direct sunlight every day to keep the foliage dry.

Rosemary: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your rosemary 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 eat rosemary with powdery mildew?: It is best to avoid eating leaves that have visible fungal growth. Wash any unaffected parts thoroughly before using them.
Does this spread to other plants?: Yes, powdery mildew spores can travel through the air to other susceptible plants. Isolate your rosemary until the spots are gone.

Why does my rosemary have white powdery spots?