Should I trim the brown tips off?

Yes, you can trim them with clean scissors for aesthetic reasons. Just avoid cutting into the healthy green tissue.

Does Bugbane need high humidity?

It prefers moderate to high humidity. If your home is very dry, the plant will show stress through its leaf tips.

Why are my Bugbane leaves getting brown tips?

Check these first

Check the top inch of soil for dryness.
Feel the texture of the brown leaf tips.
Observe if the plant is near a heating vent.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels dry more than an inch down and the leaves feel brittle.
What to do: Water your plant deeply until water runs out the bottom. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy by checking it every 3 to 5 days.
Low Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The tips turn brown even though the soil is moist.
What to do: Group your plants together to create a humid microclimate. You can also place a pebble tray with water near the base of the plant.

When to worry

It is normal for older leaves to brown slightly at the end of the season. Worry if the browning spreads rapidly across new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent soil moisture and keep the plant away from direct airflow from heaters or air conditioners.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your bugbane.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Should I trim the brown tips off?: Yes, you can trim them with clean scissors for aesthetic reasons. Just avoid cutting into the healthy green tissue.
Does Bugbane need high humidity?: It prefers moderate to high humidity. If your home is very dry, the plant will show stress through its leaf tips.