Does boneset go dormant?

Yes, in its natural habitat, it may lose leaves as it enters dormancy in the winter. If this happens, reduce water until spring growth begins.

Can pests cause leaf drop?

Yes, heavy infestations of spider mites or aphids can stress the plant enough to cause leaf drop. Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny webs or insects.

Why is my boneset losing its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the base of the stems for mushiness.
Look for signs of pests like spider mites.
Verify the plant is not sitting in standing water.

Likely causes

Root Rot
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown and fall off while the stems look mushy or dark at the base.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black, mushy roots. Repot in fresh, well draining soil and ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Temperature Shock
Possible
How to tell: Leaves drop suddenly after the plant is moved to a new location or exposed to a cold draft.
What to do: Move the plant to a stable environment away from windows that get cold at night or doors that let in drafts. Keep the temperature between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common boneset

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

A few leaves dropping during a seasonal change is normal. Worry if the plant is losing leaves rapidly or if the stems are wilting.

Stopping it coming back

Avoid overwatering and keep the plant in a stable, draft free location.

Common boneset: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common boneset 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

Does boneset go dormant?: Yes, in its natural habitat, it may lose leaves as it enters dormancy in the winter. If this happens, reduce water until spring growth begins.
Can pests cause leaf drop?: Yes, heavy infestations of spider mites or aphids can stress the plant enough to cause leaf drop. Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny webs or insects.

Guides to these causes

Root Rot

Why is my boneset losing its leaves?