China Doll (Radermachera sinica) Sudden Leaf Drop

Why China Dolls Shed Leaves

Radermachera sinica is notoriously finicky. Sudden leaf drop is usually triggered by:

• Watering inconsistency: Soil kept too wet or allowed to dry out completely, even once.
• Environmental change: Moving from a sunroom to a lounge alters light, temperature, and humidity.
• Repotting stress: They prefer to be root-bound; repotting often causes decline.

Optimal Conditions

• Light: Bright, indirect light (east window or large north window).
• Temperature: 65–77°F (18–25°C); avoid drafts.
• Water: Let top 2–3 cm dry between thorough waterings.
• Pot: Keep in the same pot as long as possible.

Recovery Strategy

Return to the original location if possible. Stabilize watering. Do not fertilize until new growth appears. Be patient—recovery can take months.