Rhododendron sun scald. Note the discoloration of the leaf tissue near the midrib. This injury is non-pathogenic and is primarily an aesthetic problem in the landscape. Sun scald on fatsia. This plant can tolerate some filtered light but not full sun exposure. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may result in sun scald, or even plant death. Additionally, saprophytic fungi may develop in sun-scalded areas.

Sun scald on tomato causes necrotic areas on the fruit exposed to the sun. The injury is usually found near the stem end. Image courtesy of Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension. Sun scald damage on peppers results in a white, light brown lesion on the fruit. The side of the fruit exposed to the sun is usually soft, sunken and wrinkled. This creates a good environment for the entry of secondary rot organisms, which can then cause fruit decay.