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Camellia Black Coating: Sooty Mold from Insects

Camellia leaves turning black with thick coating. Expert identifies sooty mold growing on honeydew from aphids, whiteflies, scales, or leafhoppers.

Management

Wash/wipe mold off leaves (doesn't penetrate tissue).
Control insects: wash undersides, then apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap from garden store.

Mold reduces photosynthesis but doesn't kill plant directly.

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