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Small-leaf spiderwort · Tradescantia fluminensis

Why does my Tradescantia fluminensis have spots?

It is less common for this plant to develop spots unless it is dealing with fungal issues or pest damage. Check the underside of the leaves first to rule out aphids.

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spots on a plant
Photo: Scot Nelson, CC0

Check these first

  1. Look at the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects.
  2. Check if the leaves stay wet after watering.
  3. Inspect the plant for signs of poor airflow.

Likely causes

  1. Fungal Leaf Spot

    Most likely

    How to tell: Small brown or black spots appear on the leaves, often with a yellow halo.

    What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to prevent the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant by spacing it away from other foliage. Avoid getting water on the leaves when you irrigate.

  2. Aphids

    Possible

    How to tell: Tiny green or black insects cluster on new growth and leave behind sticky residue.

    What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth or use a gentle spray of water to dislodge the bugs. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks to fully clear the infestation.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your small-leaf spiderwort

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.

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When to worry

Small spots are manageable, but if they spread rapidly across the entire plant, it may be a sign of a severe fungal infection. Normal aging can sometimes cause a single brown spot on an old leaf.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant instead of overhead to keep the foliage dry. Maintain good airflow to prevent fungal spores from settling.

Small-leaf spiderwort: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your small-leaf spiderwort 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I use household soap to kill aphids?
Use only mild, non-detergent soap diluted in water. Harsh chemicals can burn the delicate leaves of your spiderwort.
Are the spots contagious to my other plants?
If the spots are fungal, they can spread through water splashes or air. Isolate the plant until the spots stop appearing.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Small-leaf spiderwort

Back to the Small-leaf spiderwort guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.