Troubleshooting
Shining Temple Bells problems — and how to fix them
Shining Temple Bells (Smithiantha fulgida) 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.
Maroon leaf discolouration loss
Insufficient light causes the attractive reddish pigmentation of the hairy foliage to fade to plain green. Move to a brighter filtered-light position to restore colour.
Rhizome rot during dormancy
Continuing to water through winter in a cold room leads to rhizome rot. Once foliage has fully died back, store rhizomes dry or barely moist at 10–12°C until spring.
Fungal rot at stem base
Excess humidity combined with poor air circulation causes neck rot where the stem meets the soil. Ensure pots have drainage holes, avoid overwatering, and maintain gentle air movement.
Prevent shining temple bells problems before they start
Most shining temple bells issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Shining Temple Bells problems — FAQ
Why is my shining temple bells maroon leaf discolouration loss?
Insufficient light causes the attractive reddish pigmentation of the hairy foliage to fade to plain green. Move to a brighter filtered-light position to restore colour.
Why is my shining temple bells rhizome rot during dormancy?
Continuing to water through winter in a cold room leads to rhizome rot. Once foliage has fully died back, store rhizomes dry or barely moist at 10–12°C until spring.
Why is my shining temple bells fungal rot at stem base?
Excess humidity combined with poor air circulation causes neck rot where the stem meets the soil. Ensure pots have drainage holes, avoid overwatering, and maintain gentle air movement.