How do I know if it needs water or is just hot?

If the soil is dry, it needs water. If the soil is moist but the plant is drooping in the afternoon sun, it is likely heat stress.

Should I mist the leaves?

Misting does not help much with drooping. Focus on keeping the soil moisture consistent and providing a cooler environment.

Why is my Canadian lousewort drooping? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is dry.
Check the location to see if it is in direct, intense afternoon sun.
Look for signs of wilting in the morning versus the evening.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels dry and crumbly to the touch. The leaves look thin and lose their firm texture.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough watering until water drains from the bottom. Ensure the soil is evenly moist throughout the pot.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The plant droops during the hottest part of the day but perks up at night. The leaves may feel warm to the touch.
What to do: Move the plant to a cooler, shaded location during the afternoon. Mulching around the base can help keep the roots cool.

Drooping in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your canadian lousewort

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

It is normal for the plant to droop slightly during extreme heat, but it should recover once temperatures drop. If the plant stays wilted even after watering, it may have root damage.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist by checking it every few days. Provide afternoon shade if your region experiences high heat.

Canadian lousewort: drooping? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your canadian lousewort 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

How do I know if it needs water or is just hot?: If the soil is dry, it needs water. If the soil is moist but the plant is drooping in the afternoon sun, it is likely heat stress.
Should I mist the leaves?: Misting does not help much with drooping. Focus on keeping the soil moisture consistent and providing a cooler environment.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Canadian lousewort drooping?