Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Check if the pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
- Feel the soil an inch deep to see if it is still wet.
- Smell the soil for any signs of decay or rot.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves will turn yellow or brown and the stems may feel mushy near the soil line. You might also notice a sour or swampy smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 to 3 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil remains wet after a week, carefully remove the plant and trim away any black or slimy roots with clean scissors.
Poor Drainage
PossibleHow to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after you water. The plant looks wilted even when the soil feels damp.
What to do: Repot your tree into a container that has large drainage holes at the bottom. Use a well draining potting mix that includes perlite or coarse sand to help water move through the soil faster.
Find out what's wrong with your fish poison 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.
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When to worry
You should worry if the entire base of the trunk feels soft or squishy, as this often means the rot has spread too far. It is normal for a few older leaves to drop occasionally, but widespread wilting is a sign of trouble.
Stopping it coming back
Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before you water again. Ensure your pot is never sitting in a saucer full of standing water.
Keep your fish poison tree healthy from here
Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Can I save a plant with root rot?
- Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while it recovers.
- How often should I water my Barringtonia?
- Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil is dry. Always check the soil moisture before adding more water.
More problems with Fish poison tree
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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.