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Leatherleaf Fern · Rumohra adiantiformis

Why is my Leatherleaf Fern dropping its leaves?

It is less common for this plant to drop leaves suddenly, which usually points to a significant change in its environment or a pest infestation. Check for tiny brown bumps on the underside of the fronds first to rule out scale insects.

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of the fronds for scale insects.
  2. Check if the plant was recently moved to a new room.
  3. Ensure the plant is not near a heater or air conditioner vent.

Likely causes

  1. Scale Insects

    Most likely

    How to tell: You will see small brown bumps on the stems or undersides of the fronds. These pests suck the sap and cause the plant to weaken and drop foliage.

    What to do: Gently scrape the bumps off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Treat the entire plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks.

  2. Environmental Shock

    Possible

    How to tell: The plant drops fronds after being moved to a new location or experiencing a sudden temperature shift. The remaining foliage may look otherwise healthy.

    What to do: Place the fern in a stable spot with medium, indirect light. Avoid moving it again so it can adjust to its new surroundings.

Find out what's wrong with your leatherleaf fern

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

Sudden leaf drop is a sign of severe stress. If the plant is losing most of its fronds, it is likely struggling to survive.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in a stable environment and inspect the fronds regularly for pests.

Keep your leatherleaf fern healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Does this plant flower?
Leatherleaf Ferns do not produce flowers. They are grown for their beautiful, lacy green fronds.
Will the fronds grow back?
Yes, if the roots are healthy, the plant will push out new fronds from the base. Be patient and keep providing consistent care.

More problems with Leatherleaf Fern

Back to the Leatherleaf Fern 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.