Check these first
- Inspect the stems closely for tiny aphids.
- Check if the plant is near a cold draft.
- Look for signs of sudden temperature changes.
Likely causes
Aphids
Most likelyHow to tell: You see small, soft bodied insects clustering on the stems or undersides of leaves. They suck the sap and cause the leaves to weaken and fall.
What to do: Gently wash the plant with a stream of water to knock the aphids off. If they persist, use a mild insecticidal soap according to the label instructions.
Temperature shock
PossibleHow to tell: The plant drops leaves after being moved to a drafty area or a room with fluctuating temperatures. This plant prefers steady, moderate conditions.
What to do: Move the plant to a stable location away from air conditioning vents or drafty windows. Maintain a consistent temperature between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Find out what's wrong with your marsh pennywort
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
Minor leaf drop can happen when a plant is adjusting to a new home. Worry if the plant is losing a large amount of foliage in a short time.
Stopping it coming back
Check your plant regularly for pests and keep it away from extreme temperature swings.
Marsh pennywort: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your marsh pennywort 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
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Questions people ask
- Do these plants flower?
- Yes, they produce small, inconspicuous flowers in the summer. They need plenty of light and consistent moisture to bloom.
- Will the plant grow back?
- Yes, if you address the cause of the leaf drop, the plant will produce new stems and leaves from its creeping rhizomes.
Guides to these causes
More problems with marsh pennywort
Back to the marsh pennywort 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.
