Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Feel the soil to see if it is soggy or bone dry.
- Check for cold drafts near the plant location.
- Inspect the base of the stems for signs of rot.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: Leaves turn yellow or mushy before falling off, and the soil stays wet for a long time.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Cold drafts
PossibleHow to tell: Leaves drop suddenly, especially after being near an open window or air conditioning vent.
What to do: Move the plant away from any cold drafts or direct airflow. Keep it in a consistent room temperature between 65 and 75 degrees.
When to worry
A few old leaves dropping occasionally is normal. If you see many leaves falling at once, it is a sign of a major environmental issue.
Stopping it coming back
Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the plant away from temperature fluctuations.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your lipstick plant.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Can dry air cause leaf drop?
- Yes, lipstick plants love humidity. If your home is very dry, the leaves may drop to conserve moisture.
- Should I mist my plant to stop leaf drop?
- Misting provides only temporary relief. Using a pebble tray or a humidifier is much more effective for long term humidity.
More problems with Lipstick plant
Back to the Lipstick plant guide
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.