leaf spots on Caladium
Quick answer
If your Caladium has leaf spots, the most likely cause is: Dry brown spots are typically sunburn due to the thin, delicate nature of Caladium leaves. Wet, haloed, or fuzzy spots indicate fungal/bacterial infections like Anthracnose (Colletotrichum caladii). Yellowing is usually a sign of transplant shock or overwatering.
Start here:
- 1. Sunburn Recovery: Move the plant to bright indirect light (East-facing window is best). Trim the burned leaves as they cannot revert.
- 2. Infection Control: If spots have yellow halos or spread rapidly, apply a copper-based fungicide and increase airflow with a fan. Avoid misting leaves in stagnant air.
Why Caladium gets leaf spots
Dry brown spots are typically sunburn due to the thin, delicate nature of Caladium leaves. Wet, haloed, or fuzzy spots indicate fungal/bacterial infections like Anthracnose (Colletotrichum caladii). Yellowing is usually a sign of transplant shock or overwatering.
How to reverse leaf spots on Caladium
- 1
Sunburn Recovery: Move the plant to bright indirect light (East-facing window is best). Trim the burned leaves as they cannot revert.
- 2
Infection Control: If spots have yellow halos or spread rapidly, apply a copper-based fungicide and increase airflow with a fan. Avoid misting leaves in stagnant air.
- 3
Tuber Squeeze Test: Squeeze the base of the plant at the soil line. If firm, the yellowing is shock (wait 2 weeks). If mushy, it is rot.
- 4
Watering: Switch to filtered or rainwater. If using a humidifier, ensure it is cleaned and uses mineral-free water to prevent foliar buildup.
Keep leaf spots off this Caladium
Acclimate new Caladiums gradually over 7-10 days. Maintain consistent 60% humidity. Position 2-4 feet away from south-facing windows to avoid midday scorch.