Will my camellia grow new leaves?

Yes, once the stressor is removed, the plant will eventually push out new growth. It may take a few weeks to recover.

Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?

No, avoid fertilizing until the plant has stabilized. Adding fertilizer to a stressed plant can cause further damage.

Sasanqua camellia: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the top inch of soil for dryness.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for signs of pests.
Feel the leaves to see if they are brittle or soft.

Likely causes

Drought stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel brittle or dry before they fall off the branches. You might also notice the soil pulling away from the sides of the pot.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a consistent schedule of checking the soil every 5 to 10 days. Apply a layer of mulch to help the soil retain moisture.
Temperature shock
Possible
How to tell: Leaves drop suddenly after a cold snap or a move to a drafty location. The plant otherwise looks healthy but is reacting to the environment.
What to do: Move the camellia to a spot protected from harsh winds or heating vents. Keep the plant in a stable temperature range of 50 to 75 degrees. Avoid moving the pot frequently once it has adjusted to a location.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sasanqua camellia

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

A few leaves dropping in the spring is normal as the plant replaces old foliage. Worry if the leaf drop is rapid or involves large sections of the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy and protect the plant from extreme temperature fluctuations.

Sasanqua camellia: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sasanqua camellia 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.

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

Questions people ask

Will my camellia grow new leaves?: Yes, once the stressor is removed, the plant will eventually push out new growth. It may take a few weeks to recover.
Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?: No, avoid fertilizing until the plant has stabilized. Adding fertilizer to a stressed plant can cause further damage.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Sasanqua camellia dropping leaves?