Most likely cause

Normal lower-leaf loss as it grows. Only worry if it’s dropping leaves from the top or many at once; otherwise let it be.

Describe what is visible before choosing a cause

01Yellowing lower leaves
02Soft mushy stem
03Root rot
04Foul-smelling soil
05Crispy leaf edges
06Browning leaf tips

What’s causing it

How to tell

Normal lower-leaf loss as it grows. Losing older, lower leaves steadily while the top keeps growing is completely normal on a Pleomele as the cane lengthens. It’s not a symptom by itself.

A recent change or shock. It started dropping leaves soon after you bought, moved, or repotted it, or when the seasons turned.

Overwatering. Leaves yellow and then drop, and the soil stays wet, often alongside yellowing lower leaves.

Underwatering. Leaves crisp, curl, and drop, and the soil is bone dry alongside crispy leaf edges.

Cold drafts or temperature swings. It’s near a frequently-opened door, a cold window, or a heat source, and drops leaves in cold snaps.

The fix

Normal lower-leaf loss as it grows. Only worry if it’s dropping leaves from the top or many at once; otherwise let it be.

A recent change or shock. Pick a suitable spot, keep care steady, don’t fertilize, and let it adjust over a couple of weeks. Many plants settle once conditions stop changing.

Overwatering. Ease off watering, check drainage, and inspect for rot in the roots if it feels soft.

Underwatering. Water thoroughly and then keep it more consistent.

Cold drafts or temperature swings. Move it somewhere with stable, draft-free temperatures.

Prevention

Losing a few lower leaves as it grows taller is normal. Worry only about sudden drops from the top. Keep watering consistent and protect it from cold drafts.