Check these first
- Stick your finger two inches into the soil to check moisture.
- Check if the pot has drainage holes.
- Feel the leaves to see if they are brittle or soft.
Likely causes
Underwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The soil feels dry and crumbly to the touch. The leaves may look dull and feel limp.
What to do: Give the plant a deep soak until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a schedule of watering every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat.
Root rot
PossibleHow to tell: The soil stays soggy for days and the base of the plant looks dark or mushy. The leaves might turn yellow before they droop.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and check the roots for mushy, black sections. Trim away dead roots and repot in fresh, well draining soil.
When to worry
If the plant does not perk up within a few hours of watering, the roots may be damaged. A slight wilt on a very hot afternoon is normal.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged by checking the top layer before adding more water.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your tutsan.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- How often should I check the soil?
- Check it once a week. If the top inch is dry, it is time to water.
- Can Tutsan handle dry soil?
- It prefers consistent moisture. It will tolerate short dry spells, but prolonged drought will cause significant drooping.
More problems with Tutsan
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.
