Should I remove yellow leaves?

Yes, you can gently pull them away once they are completely yellow and dry. This keeps the plant looking tidy.

Is yellowing a sign of root rot?

If the yellowing is accompanied by a mushy stem base or a foul smell, it could be root rot. You may need to repot into fresh, dry soil.

African lily: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is waterlogged.
Check the bottom of the pot to ensure water is draining freely.
Look for signs of pests on the underside of the yellowing leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look limp and yellow, and the soil feels soggy or swampy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. Ensure the pot has excellent drainage and is not sitting in a saucer of standing water.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The older leaves turn pale yellow while the plant looks otherwise healthy.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season. Do this once every 4 to 6 weeks to replenish the soil nutrients.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your african lily

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is perfectly normal for the oldest, lowest leaves to turn yellow and die back as the plant grows. Worry only if the yellowing is happening on many leaves at once.

Stopping it coming back

Use a well draining potting mix and always empty the drainage saucer after watering.

African lily: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your african lily and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I remove yellow leaves?: Yes, you can gently pull them away once they are completely yellow and dry. This keeps the plant looking tidy.
Is yellowing a sign of root rot?: If the yellowing is accompanied by a mushy stem base or a foul smell, it could be root rot. You may need to repot into fresh, dry soil.

Why are my African lily's leaves turning yellow?