Can I save a plant with Verticillium wilt?

You can sometimes manage it by pruning, but the fungus remains in the soil. If the plant continues to decline, it is best to remove it.

How often should I water my Smokebush?

Once established, water deeply every 7 to 14 days. Always let the soil dry out slightly between sessions.

Why is my Purple Smokebush drooping?

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is dry or waterlogged.
Check if only one branch is wilting or the whole plant.
Look for dark streaks inside a small pruned twig.

Likely causes

Verticillium Wilt
Most likely
How to tell: You will see sudden wilting of individual branches, often starting on one side of the plant. If you cut a small branch, you might see dark streaks in the wood.
What to do: There is no cure for this soilborne fungus. Prune out the affected branches well below the damage and disinfect your tools with bleach between cuts to prevent spreading.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look limp and dry, and the soil feels bone dry several inches down. This happens if the plant has not been watered during a hot, dry spell.
What to do: Give the plant a deep, slow soak at the base. Ensure you are watering every 7 to 14 days during the growing season.

When to worry

If the wilting is caused by Verticillium wilt, it can be fatal to the entire plant. If it is just dry soil, the plant should perk up within a few hours of watering.

Stopping it coming back

Avoid planting in soil where other plants have previously died from wilt. Keep the plant healthy with proper watering to help it resist stress.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your purple smokebush.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf 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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Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with Verticillium wilt?: You can sometimes manage it by pruning, but the fungus remains in the soil. If the plant continues to decline, it is best to remove it.
How often should I water my Smokebush?: Once established, water deeply every 7 to 14 days. Always let the soil dry out slightly between sessions.