Tibouchina Compacta Sudden Leaf Drop: Root Zone Investigation

Planted 3 Tibouchina compacta 4+ weeks ago in partial sun. Not familiar with this species (grown T. granulosa, T. urvilleana). Planted before summer rains during severe drought, hand-watered + irrigation, flowered well, appeared well-sited. Last week after good rain, leaves on 2 of 3 (morning/noon light, 4 ft apart) curled under and dropped in 1–2 days. No new leaves. Third plant (afternoon light) has few curling leaves, no drop. Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Prior VA experience—leaf drop looks like cold reaction. Advice appreciated—good-sized (3'x4') bushes fill key landscape space.

Expert Advice

Sudden leaf drop usually indicates soil change affecting roots. Without seeing plant/history, hard to pinpoint. Check soil for anything unusual. You sound knowledgeable—likely root system compromised but reactionary; should send new growth. Monitor cambium layer for viability.

Nick