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Water figwort · Scrophularia auriculata

Why is my water figwort dropping its leaves?

This is less common for this plant, as it is quite hardy. It usually happens due to extreme soil moisture fluctuations or severe pest stress.

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Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small insects.
  2. Check the soil to see if it has dried out completely.
  3. Look for signs of wilting before the leaves actually drop.

Likely causes

  1. Severe drought

    Most likely

    How to tell: The leaves will wilt and turn yellow before falling off. The soil will be completely dry and pulling away from the sides of the pot.

    What to do: Soak the soil thoroughly until water drains from the bottom. Maintain a strict watering schedule every 2 to 5 days to prevent future wilting.

  2. Aphid infestation

    Possible

    How to tell: You will see small insects clustering on new growth and flower buds. These pests suck the sap, causing leaves to yellow and drop prematurely.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock the aphids off. For persistent cases, apply insecticidal soap according to the label instructions.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your water figwort

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

It is normal for a few older leaves at the base to drop as the plant grows. Worry if you see rapid leaf loss across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Monitor the soil moisture closely and check the new growth for aphids every week.

Water figwort: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your water figwort 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 the leaves grow back?
The plant will grow new leaves from the nodes once the stressor is removed. Keep the plant healthy and it will recover.
Can I use neem oil for the aphids?
Yes, neem oil is effective against aphids. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in direct sun.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Water figwort

Back to the Water figwort 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.