macrophoma leaf spot on boxwood

Black, raised fruiting bodies of Macrophoma leaf spot on boxwood. Photo: David L. Clement, University of Maryland

Updated: August 8, 2022

About macrophoma leaf spot

  • Most boxwoods are susceptible to infection by the weak fungus, Macrophoma candollei.
  • The most obvious symptoms are the many tiny black raised fruiting bodies found on dying or dead straw-colored leaves.

Management

  • In the home landscape, proper pruning and thinning, instead of shearing the shrubs, is the most effective way to manage this disease. Thinning the shrub helps to increase air circulation helping the leaves to dry out and not stay constantly moist. 
  • Fungicide treatment is not necessary or recommended.