Black spots on leaves can come from fungal disease, bacterial infection, overwatering, cold damage, or sunburn. The location and texture of the spots matter.
Quick Answer
Black spots on plant leaves often mean leaf disease or water-related stress. Isolate the plant, remove badly affected leaves, avoid wetting foliage, improve airflow, and check roots if the soil is staying wet.
Fungal or Bacterial Spots
Disease spots often spread, develop yellow halos, or appear after leaves stay wet. Remove affected leaves and keep the foliage dry. Increase airflow around the plant.
Overwatering
Wet roots can cause leaf tissue to die, especially if the plant is already stressed. If black spots appear with yellow leaves or drooping, inspect watering and roots.
Sunburn or Cold Damage
Black patches that appear after direct sun or cold exposure may be environmental damage. Move the plant to stable bright indirect light.
What to Do
Isolate the plant. Cut off severely affected leaves. Clean scissors between cuts. Keep water off the leaves. Check for pests and root problems.
Bottom Line
Black spots need quick attention because they can spread. Treat the plant like a small investigation: leaves, roots, water, airflow, and recent changes.