Are aphids harmful to Motherwort?

Yes, they suck the sap and weaken the plant. They can also spread viruses, so it is best to remove them quickly.

Does Motherwort bloom?

Yes, it produces small pinkish flowers. It needs plenty of sunlight and consistent care to bloom well.

Motherwort: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for tiny bugs.
Check if the soil feels depleted or dry.
See if the yellowing is happening on older leaves or new growth.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see small clusters of green or black insects on the undersides of leaves or on new growth. The leaves may look sticky or start to yellow.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth or spray the plant with a gentle stream of water. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil once a week until the pests are gone.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The older leaves turn yellow uniformly while the plant stops growing. This often happens if the plant has been in the same pot for a long time.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season. If the plant is very root bound, repot it into a slightly larger container with fresh soil.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your motherwort

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 single yellow leaf at the base of the plant is normal as it ages. If many leaves turn yellow quickly, you need to treat for pests or fix the soil nutrients.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant clean by wiping leaves occasionally and check for pests every time you water.

Motherwort: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your motherwort 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

Are aphids harmful to Motherwort?: Yes, they suck the sap and weaken the plant. They can also spread viruses, so it is best to remove them quickly.
Does Motherwort bloom?: Yes, it produces small pinkish flowers. It needs plenty of sunlight and consistent care to bloom well.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my Motherwort's leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your motherwort?