Brown Spots on Monstera Leaves?
The common causes — and how to tell them apart.
Brown spots on a Monstera usually come from fungal or bacterial leaf spot (dark spots with a yellow halo), sunburn (dry bleached-brown patches), or edema from overwatering in low light (raised corky bumps). The location and texture of the spots tell you which. Snap a photo below for an instant diagnosis and the exact fix.
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The 4 causes, compared
| Cause | How to spot it | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Fungal / bacterial leaf spot | Spreading dark spots with a yellow ring or wet halo | Remove affected leaves, improve airflow, avoid wetting the foliage; use a fungicide only if it keeps spreading |
| Sunburn | Dry, bleached-brown patches on the side facing the window | Move to bright indirect light and acclimate gradually to any direct sun |
| Edema (overwatering in low light) | Blister-like or corky raised bumps on leaf undersides | Reduce watering — especially in low light — and improve light and airflow |
| Cold water on the leaves | Pale-ringed water-spot marks | Avoid wetting the foliage; use room-temperature water |
FAQ
- Will the brown spots on my Monstera spread?
- Fungal and bacterial leaf spots can spread — remove affected leaves and improve airflow. Sunburn and edema spots don't spread once you fix the light or watering.
- Should I cut off leaves with brown spots?
- Remove badly spotted leaves (especially if it's a spreading leaf spot) to slow it down; minor cosmetic spots from sun or edema can be left.