Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Check if the soil is bone dry.
- Look closely at the new growth for tiny insects.
- Ensure the plant is not in a drafty area.
Likely causes
Extreme drought
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves wilt suddenly and then drop off in large numbers. This happens when the plant is left without water for too long.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly and ensure it sits in a shallow tray of water. Keep the soil saturated at all times to prevent further shock.
Aphid infestation
PossibleHow to tell: New leaves drop or look stunted while you see small insects on the stems. Aphids suck the sap, weakening the plant until it sheds leaves.
What to do: Wash the aphids off with a gentle stream of water. If the infestation persists, use an insecticidal soap specifically labeled for aquatic or semi aquatic plants.
Find out what's wrong with your winged primrose-willow
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.
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When to worry
Worry if the plant is losing more than a few leaves a day. It is normal to see a few leaves drop when you first bring the plant home or move it to a new location.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the plant in a shallow water tray to ensure it never runs out of moisture. Inspect the stems weekly for any signs of aphids.
Winged primrose-willow: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your winged primrose-willow 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
- Will my plant grow back after losing leaves?
- Yes, if you correct the watering or pest issue, the plant will produce new growth. It may take a few weeks to recover its fullness.
- Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?
- No, wait until the plant shows signs of new growth before fertilizing. Fertilizing a stressed plant can cause more harm.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Winged primrose-willow
Back to the Winged primrose-willow 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.