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Spur flower · Plectranthus

Why is my Plectranthus losing its leaves?

It is less common for this plant to drop leaves, usually caused by sudden changes in environment or inconsistent watering. Check the soil moisture first to see if you are overwatering or letting it get too dry.

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Check these first

  1. Check the top inch of soil for moisture.
  2. Inspect the plant for any sudden changes in its location.
  3. Look for signs of pests like mealybugs.

Likely causes

  1. Inconsistent Watering

    Most likely

    How to tell: The soil is either bone dry or constantly soggy. Leaves may look wilted before they fall off.

    What to do: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Aim for a consistent schedule every 5 to 10 days depending on your home temperature.

  2. Environmental Shock

    Possible

    How to tell: The plant started dropping leaves right after you moved it to a new spot or brought it inside. It is reacting to a change in light or temperature.

    What to do: Keep the plant in a stable location with bright indirect light. Avoid placing it near drafty windows or heating vents.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your spur flower

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

A few leaves dropping after a move is normal. Be concerned if the plant is losing more than a few leaves at a time or looks bare.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a steady watering routine and keep the plant away from cold drafts or direct heat sources.

Spur flower: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your spur flower 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.

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Questions people ask

Will my plant grow back where it lost leaves?
Plectranthus can be pruned to encourage bushier growth. If the stem is still healthy, new growth will often appear at the nodes.
Is leaf drop always bad?
Not always. It is normal for the oldest, lowest leaves to yellow and drop as the plant matures.

More problems with Spur flower

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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.