Troubleshooting
Muir's Rhinephyllum problems — and how to fix them
Muir's Rhinephyllum (Rhinephyllum muirii) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Summer rot
Watering during summer dormancy quickly causes rot. Withhold water almost entirely from June through August in the northern hemisphere.
Root rot
Waterlogged soil at any time causes root and stem rot. Use very fast-draining compost and pots with drainage holes.
Etiolation
Compact pebble-like form is lost in low light; move to the brightest available spot.
Mealybugs
Check leaf bases during the growing season. Treat with alcohol swabs or neem oil solution.
Failure to flower
Correct seasonal watering cycle (water in autumn, dry in summer) is critical to stimulate autumn flowering.
Prevent muir's rhinephyllum problems before they start
Most muir's rhinephyllum issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Muir's Rhinephyllum problems — FAQ
Why is my muir's rhinephyllum summer rot?
Watering during summer dormancy quickly causes rot. Withhold water almost entirely from June through August in the northern hemisphere.
Why is my muir's rhinephyllum root rot?
Waterlogged soil at any time causes root and stem rot. Use very fast-draining compost and pots with drainage holes.
Why is my muir's rhinephyllum etiolation?
Compact pebble-like form is lost in low light; move to the brightest available spot.
Why is my muir's rhinephyllum mealybugs?
Check leaf bases during the growing season. Treat with alcohol swabs or neem oil solution.
Why is my muir's rhinephyllum failure to flower?
Correct seasonal watering cycle (water in autumn, dry in summer) is critical to stimulate autumn flowering.