Mysterious Inky Spots on African Violets: Fungal or Insect?

Jane's African violets developed blackish/navy/purplish spots on leaves and stems—even the wicker basket showed spots. The plants otherwise looked healthy. No internet matches for this color.

Possible Causes

• Unusual fungal infection (color variants exist)
• Insect frass (excrement) or egg deposits
• Mineral deposit reaction from water/pot interaction
• Chemical reaction from treatment products

Next Steps

This rare presentation needs expert diagnosis. Contact the African Violet Society of America (avsa.org) with photos. They maintain extensive disease databases and offer free consultation. Isolate affected plants meanwhile.