Will my plant grow back?

Yes, it will sprout new leaves in the fall as the temperatures drop. It is a bulbous plant that thrives in cooler weather.

Should I cut off the yellowing leaves?

Wait until the leaves are completely brown and dry before trimming them. This allows the plant to pull remaining nutrients back into the bulb.

Why are my Italian arum leaves dropping? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the current season to see if it is summer dormancy.
Feel the soil to see if it is waterlogged.
Inspect the base of the plant for mushy stems.

Likely causes

Summer Dormancy
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and wither away entirely during the hot summer months. This is a natural process for the plant to escape heat.
What to do: Stop watering once the foliage begins to yellow and die back. Keep the area dry until new growth appears in the cool autumn weather.
Root Rot
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves drop suddenly while the soil remains soggy and smells sour. The base of the stems may look mushy or dark.
What to do: Remove the plant from the soil and trim away any black, slimy roots. Repot into fresh, well draining soil and ensure the pot has drainage holes.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your italian arum

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.

When to worry

If the leaves drop in late autumn or winter, it is a sign of stress or rot. Summer leaf loss is perfectly normal.

Stopping it coming back

Plant in well draining soil and avoid overwatering during the summer months when the plant is inactive.

Italian arum: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your italian arum 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.

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Questions people ask

Will my plant grow back?: Yes, it will sprout new leaves in the fall as the temperatures drop. It is a bulbous plant that thrives in cooler weather.
Should I cut off the yellowing leaves?: Wait until the leaves are completely brown and dry before trimming them. This allows the plant to pull remaining nutrients back into the bulb.

Guides to these causes

Root Rot

Why are my Italian arum leaves dropping?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your italian arum?