Will my palm grow new leaves?

Yes, once the underlying stress is resolved, the palm will produce new fronds from the center. Be patient, as palms can be slow to recover.

Is leaf drop a sign of pests?

Sometimes scale insects can weaken a leaf enough for it to drop. Check the undersides of the leaves for small, bump like insects.

Why is my European fan palm losing leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the roots for signs of rot.
Check if the plant was recently moved.
Inspect the soil for proper drainage.

Likely causes

Root Rot
Possible
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow or brown and drop off unexpectedly. The soil may smell sour, and the roots will look dark and mushy instead of firm and white.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black or mushy roots. Repot into a clean container with fresh, fast draining soil and wait a week before watering.
Environmental Shock
Possible
How to tell: The palm drops leaves shortly after being moved to a new location or experiencing a drastic temperature change. The plant is reacting to the stress of its new surroundings.
What to do: Keep the plant in a stable environment with consistent light and temperature. Avoid moving it again until it shows signs of new growth.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european fan palm

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

Leaf drop is serious if it happens rapidly across the whole plant. It is normal for the oldest, lowest fronds to eventually turn brown and drop as the plant grows.

Stopping it coming back

Avoid sudden changes in temperature and ensure the soil never stays waterlogged.

European fan palm: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european fan palm 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 palm grow new leaves?: Yes, once the underlying stress is resolved, the palm will produce new fronds from the center. Be patient, as palms can be slow to recover.
Is leaf drop a sign of pests?: Sometimes scale insects can weaken a leaf enough for it to drop. Check the undersides of the leaves for small, bump like insects.

Guides to these causes

Root Rot

Why is my European fan palm losing leaves?