Skip to content

Quiver Tree · Aloidendron dichotomum

Why are the leaves falling off my Quiver Tree?

Leaf drop on a Quiver Tree is often a reaction to sudden environmental changes or improper watering. It is the plant's way of conserving energy during stress.

Not sure it's this? Check a photo of your plant for free

Check these first

  1. Check if the plant is near a cold draft or heat vent.
  2. Feel the leaves to see if they are shriveled or plump.
  3. Check the soil moisture level.

Likely causes

  1. Sudden Temperature Change

    Most likely

    How to tell: Leaves drop after a cold draft or a sudden move to a new location. The plant looks otherwise healthy.

    What to do: Keep the plant in a stable environment away from air conditioning vents or drafty doors. Avoid moving it frequently.

  2. Severe Dehydration

    Possible

    How to tell: The leaves look shriveled or thin before falling off. The soil has been bone dry for a very long time.

    What to do: Give the plant a thorough watering until water runs out of the drainage holes. Resume your regular 14 to 30 day schedule.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your quiver tree

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

When to worry

A few leaves falling from the bottom is normal as the plant grows. If the top leaves are dropping, it is a sign of significant stress.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent environment and avoid drastic changes in light or temperature.

Quiver Tree: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your quiver tree and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Is it normal for the bottom leaves to fall?
Yes, as the Quiver Tree matures, it naturally sheds older leaves at the base. This is part of its normal growth cycle.
Should I mist the leaves?
No, never mist a Quiver Tree. They prefer dry air and misting can lead to fungal issues.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Quiver Tree

Back to the Quiver Tree guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.