Will the leaves grow back on bare stems?

Begonias often grow from the top, so bare stems may stay bare. You can prune the stems back to encourage fuller, bushier growth.

Is leaf drop always a sign of disease?

No, it is often just a reaction to stress. Check your environment and watering habits before assuming it is a disease.

Why is my Begonia maculata losing leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look under the leaves for small white cottony insects.
Check if you recently moved the plant to a new room.
Verify if the plant is near a drafty window or vent.

Likely causes

Environmental shock
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves fall off shortly after you move the plant to a new location or change its light levels. The plant otherwise looks healthy.
What to do: Keep the plant in a stable location with consistent bright indirect light. Avoid moving it frequently so it can adjust to its surroundings.
Mealybugs
Possible
How to tell: This is less common for this plant, but mealybugs often cause leaf drop by sucking sap. Look for small white cottony patches in the leaf axils or under the leaves.
What to do: Wipe the pests away with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Treat the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap once a week until the infestation is gone.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your polka dot begonia

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

Occasional leaf drop is normal as the plant matures. If the plant is losing more than a few leaves a week, it is time to investigate your care routine.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain stable temperatures and keep the plant away from cold drafts to prevent stress-induced leaf drop.

Polka dot begonia: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your polka dot begonia 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 the leaves grow back on bare stems?: Begonias often grow from the top, so bare stems may stay bare. You can prune the stems back to encourage fuller, bushier growth.
Is leaf drop always a sign of disease?: No, it is often just a reaction to stress. Check your environment and watering habits before assuming it is a disease.

Guides to these causes

Mealybugs

Why is my Begonia maculata losing leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your polka dot begonia?