Why does your Hydrangea macrophylla Magical Pink Ruby have white cottony spots? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
These small, soft-bodied insects secrete a white, waxy, cotton-like substance to protect themselves as they feed on the sap of the Hydrangea stems and leaf undersides. They are highly common in indoor or sheltered environments where airflow is limited.
Certain species of scale insects produce a white, fluffy coating that mimics cotton. They attach to the woody stems of the Hydrangea and can cause yellowing or leaf drop if left untreated.
While typically appearing as a dusty coating rather than 'spots,' severe fungal infections can look like white patches on the foliage. This fungus thrives in high humidity and poor air circulation around the dense Hydrangea leaves.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: