A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion The House Plant Forum Speckled Stems

Hi guys,

I have a palm houseplant (i'm afraid I don't know exactly what it's called) which i've had for about 6 months and seems to be doing well and generally looks healthy, however I recently noticed that it has hundreds of tiny brown/black spots all over it's stems - particually at the bottom of the plant and gradually getting more sparse towards the top of the stems. At first glance it looked like the speckles were just soil that may have got splashed up while watering but on closer inspection i can see that there is actually discolouration on the stems. I'm a bit of a novice with plant problems so I wondered if this is something i should be worried about? As i say i've only just noticed it so i'm not sure how long it has been this way.
I've checked the whole of the plant thoroughly for any signs of insect activity and can't see any so i'm guessing this is some sort of disease?

If anyone has any ideas at to what it might be i'd be very greatful to hear from you.

Many thanks,
Dawn

Hi Dawn Welcome to the GardenHelper

Are these spots 'raised' ? can you post a pictures?? maybe possible scale??

No - the spots are not raised - they are just discoloured patches. They are very small - less than 1mm across.
How do i post pictures?

thanks,
Dawn

Do you mist your plant? It almost sounds like a moisture problem, but that is not to say there isn't a chance of some soil residing insect.... Closeup photos would be very helpful.
//www.agardenersforum.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=30267#Post30267

Could your palm be an Areca palm? Areca stems are speckled. I don't have a photograph, however, I'm sure you'll find one if you google it.

Thanks Star Dancer, Yes you've solved the mystery. I googled it as you said and foud that it is a Areca palm. Thank you for putting my mind at rest.