PlantPal

Blisters or corky bumps on leaves

Firm bumps that are part of the leaf may be edema, a response to a water imbalance.

Raised edema marks on a fiddle-leaf fig leaf.
Raised edema marks on a fiddle-leaf fig leaf. Photo: BezierBaby · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Resized and converted for display.

What to check first

Look under the leaf. Edema can start as tiny blisters and leave rough, corky marks. If you see separate shells, insects or sticky residue, also check for scale.

What to do now

Let the mix dry to the level the plant tolerates between waterings and empty standing water. Give the foliage room for air to move and keep the plant in suitable light.

What to watch next

The old bumps may remain. If new leaves are smooth, the adjustment may be helping. If new bumps appear alongside sticky residue or visible insects, check again for pests.

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