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Indian Borage · Plectranthus amboinicus

Why is my Indian Borage growing so tall and thin?

Leggy growth happens when your plant is reaching for more light. Check if your plant is getting enough bright, indirect sunlight throughout the day.

Check these first

  1. Move the plant closer to a window.
  2. Check if the plant is leaning toward the light source.
  3. Trim the long stems to encourage branching.

Likely causes

  1. Insufficient Light

    Most likely

    How to tell: The stems are long with large gaps between the leaves.

    What to do: Move the plant to a brighter spot, like a window with bright, indirect light. Rotate the pot every week so all sides get even exposure.

  2. Lack of Pruning

    Possible

    How to tell: The plant is tall but has not been trimmed to encourage bushiness.

    What to do: Pinch off the top tips of the stems to encourage side growth. This makes the plant look fuller and more compact.

When to worry

It is not a health emergency, just an aesthetic issue. It is normal for the plant to grow taller over time, but it should not look weak or sparse.

Stopping it coming back

Provide plenty of bright, indirect light and pinch the tips back regularly to keep the shape compact.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your indian borage.

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.

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Questions people ask

Can I replant the cuttings?
Yes, Indian Borage roots very easily. Stick the cuttings in soil or water to start new plants.
How much light is too much?
Direct, harsh afternoon sun can burn the leaves. Stick to bright, indirect light for the best growth.

More problems with Indian Borage

Back to the Indian Borage guide

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.