Expert: Diana Hamilton - 6/19/2009

Question
Hello, My wax malphigia was v much healthy, but recently it lost all its leaves and new leaves are also turning black.I m in India here summers are very severe, i had kept it in shade.

Answer
Hello Priyanshi,

It would seem that this plant is either a native of, and/or is a very popular plant, in India and, as such, I can find no reference to it in the very many books I have on popular house plants grown in Europe - I am in southern Spain by the way.

I have read that it needs lots of water and winter protection and it also seems to be a popular plant for lovers of Bonsai.

Do you have a photo of your plant when it was healthy?  If so I would love to see it.

I would suggest that you go to your local garden centre or contact a local horticulturist or society for advice.

I do hope you manage to find out what is ailing your plant.  And if you do, please let me know.

Diana