Strange blemishes on new phal leaf

[Fuzzy]

Hello, this is a question about a new leaf on my Phal Surf Song. First, it's coming at a very odd angle because presumably it's orienting itself towards light. Would this mean the phal is not getting enough light in general? Second, I noticed two odd, round blemishes/spots on the new leaf (you can see them in the pictures). This sort of upset me, because I know leaves don't heal and this is a brand-new leaf. But more importantly, what could be causing this and is this in any way bad for the phal?

[Bill U.]

I would say that your new leave is just orienting itself to get the most light possible- that is an inherent trait in almost any plant. They photosynthesize for energy, so they want to grow/orient themselves in a such a way to make the most efficient use of their solar panels- aka "leaves".

Judging from your pictures, I would not say that your phal is not getting enough light per say- I think that it possibly could use a little bit more but doesn't necessarily NEED it if the green showing in your pictures are accurate to the actual coloring of the leaves in real life. What are your light conditions- do you grow on a windowsill, under lights...? From my experience, Surf Song will never have really bright green-apple colored leaves no matter how much light you give it.

As for the blemishes- sometimes they just kinda happen. If there is no evidence of any insect activity (mealybugs, scale, etc), then I would chalk it up to random mechanical damage that sometimes happens as a leaf is developing if it gets a little "stuck" as it is growing out of the crown. Or it could just be any mechanical damage if it had gotten bumped or anything during watering or staking up those spikes that I also see.

[camille1585]

I agree that it's probably turning towards the light. I don't like helicoptering leaves on my phals, so usually avoid rotating them. The same side always gets the light, and the leaves always grow the same way. What sort of light is is getting? Phals can take bright diffused light, and even a few hours of sun early/late in the day, providing they've been adjusted to it.

And blemishes happen, new leaves seem especially prone to them since they are still so tender.