Check these first
- Examine the leaf edges for irregular notches.
- Look for white dust on the top of the leaves.
- Check the soil for small white grubs.
Likely causes
Vine Weevil
Most likelyHow to tell: Adult weevils notch the edges of leaves, while larvae feed on roots below the surface.
What to do: Apply beneficial nematodes to the soil to target the larvae. You can also pick off adult weevils at night using a flashlight.
Powdery Mildew
Most likelyHow to tell: A white, dusty coating appears on the surface of the leaves.
What to do: Improve air circulation around the plant by thinning out crowded foliage. Apply a neem oil spray or a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew once a week until it clears.
Find out what's wrong with your coral bells
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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
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When to worry
If the plant is losing significant foliage or collapsing, act immediately. Small amounts of powdery mildew are common in humid weather and are usually manageable.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the area around your plants clean and ensure good airflow to prevent fungal issues.
Coral Bells: pests? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your coral bells 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Are these pests harmful to my other plants?
- Yes, vine weevils can spread to other container plants. It is best to isolate the affected Coral Bells until you have treated the infestation.
- Can I wash off the white dust?
- Washing the leaves can help temporarily, but it does not kill the fungus. Use a fungicide to ensure the infection does not return.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Coral Bells
- Why is my Coral Bells plant collapsing?
- Why is my Coral Bells drooping?
- Why are my Coral Bells leaves getting brown tips?
- Why are there white spots on my Coral Bells?
- Why are my Coral Bells' leaves turning yellow?
- Why is my Heuchera not blooming?
- Why are my Coral Bells looking leggy?
- Why are my Heuchera leaves curling?
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.

