Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Check the moisture level of the soil a few inches down.
- Inspect the base of the stem for mushy or discolored tissue.
- Check if the soil feels heavy or compacted.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown and the base of the stem feels soft or mushy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the soil is heavy clay, mix in some sand or grit to improve drainage.
Poor drainage
PossibleHow to tell: Water pools around the base of the plant after rain.
What to do: If the plant is in a container, ensure it has drainage holes. If in the ground, consider transplanting it to a slightly raised area.
Find out what's wrong with your viper's bugloss
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
If the stem is soft and mushy at the base, the rot is likely too advanced to save the plant. Yellowing leaves are an early warning sign.
Stopping it coming back
Only water when the top few inches of soil are dry and ensure the planting site has excellent drainage.
Viper's bugloss: root rot? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your viper's bugloss 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
- How often should I water?
- Every 7 to 14 days is usually plenty. Always check the soil dryness first.
- Can I save a plant with root rot?
- If you catch it early, yes. Stop watering and improve drainage, but if the stem is mushy, it is likely too late.
More problems with Viper's bugloss
Back to the Viper's bugloss 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.