Live Oak Leaf Spots: Insect Exit Holes, Not Disease

Live oak leaves show small brown scale-like spots with two darker holes ("face"), leaf curls around spot, turns brown/brittle, spreads to whole canopy in ~1 month.

Diagnosis

Insect activity—holes are likely exit holes for insects hatching within spots. Foliar insects on established trees rarely impact overall health significantly.

Action

Collect affected leaves for nursery/garden center ID. Rake fallen leaves in winter (some insects overwinter there). Monitor—usually cosmetic.