Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Check if the soil is completely dry.
- Look at the base of the stems for signs of rot.
- Ensure the plant is not in a drafty area.
Likely causes
Underwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The soil feels bone dry and pulls away from the edges of the pot. The stems look limp and lose their upright shape.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until you see liquid running out of the drainage holes. Maintain a schedule where you check the soil every 3 to 7 days.
Root Rot
PossibleHow to tell: The plant droops even when the soil is damp. The stems may look dark or mushy at the base near the soil line.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots for dark, slimy sections. Trim away any dead roots and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Find out what's wrong with your southern running-cedar
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.
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When to worry
Worry if the plant does not perk up within a few hours of watering. It is normal for the plant to look slightly less perky if it has been moved recently.
Stopping it coming back
Maintain a consistent watering rhythm to keep the soil evenly damp. Use a well-draining potting mix to ensure the roots get enough oxygen.
Southern running-cedar: drooping? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your southern running-cedar 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
- Does this plant flower?
- This plant does not produce traditional flowers, as it is a fern ally that reproduces via spores. It does not need special conditions to bloom.
- How do I know if I am watering enough?
- The soil should feel like a wrung-out sponge. If it feels dry and crumbly, you need to water more often.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Southern running-cedar
Back to the Southern running-cedar guide
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.