Should I use a fungicide?

Usually, you do not need chemicals. Simply removing the infected leaves and fixing the airflow is enough to stop the spread.

Can I wash the spots off?

No, these spots are damage to the leaf tissue itself. Washing them will not remove the marks.

Spanish dagger: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the spots to see if they are fuzzy or spreading.
Check if you have been watering the leaves directly instead of the soil.
Determine if the plant was recently moved to a brighter location.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, dark brown or black spots on the leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo. These spots often appear after periods of high humidity or overhead watering.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves to prevent the fungus from spreading. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves when you water the soil.
Sunburn
Possible
How to tell: The spots appear as bleached or white patches on the leaves that were suddenly exposed to intense, direct sun. This happens if the plant was moved from a dark spot to full sun too quickly.
What to do: Gradually acclimate the plant to brighter light over 2 weeks. If the damage is severe, you can trim the burnt tips, but the white spots will remain.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your spanish dagger

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 are growing rapidly or if they are accompanied by a soft, mushy texture. Small, dry, static spots are usually just cosmetic damage.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the foliage dry and ensure the plant is in a location with good air movement.

Spanish dagger: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your spanish dagger 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

Should I use a fungicide?: Usually, you do not need chemicals. Simply removing the infected leaves and fixing the airflow is enough to stop the spread.
Can I wash the spots off?: No, these spots are damage to the leaf tissue itself. Washing them will not remove the marks.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why does my Yucca gloriosa have spots on its leaves?