Hello,
Some brown leaf spots have started to appear on the leaves of my houseplant. It is a syngonium growing near an east-facing window. Any idea what’s causing this and what I can do to stop the problem and treat the plant? Thank you.
Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners regarding brown leaf spots on your Syngonium podophyllum.
Syngonium podophyllum, native to Mexico to Ecuador, is an easy to grow evergreen climbing vine that can grow to 100 to 200 cm long and prefers a warm humidified environment which can be provided by placing its pot on a tray of wet pebbles.
From your photo, it is difficult to see the details of the spots and the surrounding area. Along with insect pests such mealybugs, aphids, scale and spider mites, leaf spots caused by bacterial or fungal diseases can affect Syngonium podophyllum. One of the first steps to take is to examine your entire plant for insect pests. However, the most likely cause of what looks like tan to brown circular spots is some type of fungal disease. A fungicide may be used as a treatment and to protect the healthy leaves. It is suggested that you take a leaf to a knowledgeable staff person at your local garden centre who would be able to suggest a treatment for your plant. Follow product directions carefully. Prevention is to avoid leaf injury and over-fertilizing with nitrogen. Remember to disinfect tools used to prune any plants before moving to the next.
For more information, please see:
Malone, M. (2021). Syngonium plants. https://homeguides.sfgate.com/syngonium-plants-62387.html
All the best with your Syngonium
April 24, 2021