Sooty mold

Dark fungi can grow on honeydew left by scale, aphids, mealybugs, or whiteflies. The coating is a clue to an insect problem rather than a primary leaf infection.

Act soonPossible cause—not a diagnosis. Compare the visible signs, plant identity, and growing conditions before treating.

Check one of my plants Browse another problem

Signs you may notice

black surface coating
sticky leaves
dark film
sap-feeding insects

Safe first checks

Inspect stems and leaf undersides for sap-feeding insects and confirm that the dark coating sits on the surface.
Separate the plant if the problem may spread.
Remove only badly affected material with clean tools.
Improve airflow and keep affected foliage dry while you compare the signs.

Can look similar to

Overlapping symptoms are common. Compare these alternatives before choosing a treatment.

ordinary dirt
black spot
tissue necrosis

What to avoid

Do not assume every spot is infectious or use a disease-specific product without confirming the host and pattern.

Record and follow up

Photograph the same area in consistent light and note whether lesions enlarge, appear on new leaves, or stop after conditions improve.

Seek qualified local help when damage is severe, rapidly spreading, or may involve a regulated pest or disease.