Is my plant dying if it loses all its leaves?

Not necessarily, as it might be entering dormancy. Check the tuber for firmness, and if it is still solid, it will likely regrow when conditions improve.

Can pests cause leaf drop?

Yes, vine weevil larvae can damage the roots and cause the plant to collapse. If the plant feels loose in the pot, check the root system for these pests.

Purple cyclamen: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it is soggy or bone dry.
Check the temperature of the room where the plant sits.
Look for signs of rot at the base of the stems.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or mushy before falling off the plant. The soil feels constantly soggy and may have a sour smell.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top inch of soil dry out. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The plant wilts suddenly and leaves drop even if the soil is moist. This happens when the plant is kept in a room that is too warm for its liking.
What to do: Move your plant to a cooler spot, ideally between 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep it away from sunny windows or heat sources.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your purple cyclamen

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

If the plant loses multiple leaves in a few days, it is a sign of severe stress. It is normal for the plant to drop leaves as it enters a natural dormancy period in late summer.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule every 5 to 10 days. Keep the plant in a cool, shaded environment to mimic its natural habitat.

Purple cyclamen: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your purple cyclamen 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

Is my plant dying if it loses all its leaves?: Not necessarily, as it might be entering dormancy. Check the tuber for firmness, and if it is still solid, it will likely regrow when conditions improve.
Can pests cause leaf drop?: Yes, vine weevil larvae can damage the roots and cause the plant to collapse. If the plant feels loose in the pot, check the root system for these pests.

Why is my Cyclamen purpurascens losing its leaves?