Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors once they are mostly yellow. This helps the plant focus its energy on new, healthy growth.

Is my plant dying if it has one yellow leaf?

Not necessarily. If the rest of the plant looks firm and green, it is likely just shedding an old leaf.

African Mask Plant: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is bone dry or soaking wet.
Look at where the plant is sitting to see if it gets direct sun.
Inspect the leaves for any signs of pests.

Likely causes

Inconsistent Watering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and may feel soft or limp. This often happens if the plant goes through long dry spells followed by heavy watering.
What to do: Establish a consistent schedule where you check the soil every 5 to 7 days. Water thoroughly until it runs out the bottom, then discard any excess water in the saucer.
Too Much Direct Sunlight
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look bleached or develop yellow patches where the sun hits them directly. The plant may look faded overall.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in a window where harsh afternoon sun hits the leaves directly.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your african mask plant

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 normal for the oldest, lowest leaf to turn yellow and die as the plant grows. If multiple leaves yellow at once, it is time to adjust your care.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in stable, bright indirect light and maintain a steady watering routine. Avoid sudden changes in temperature or light exposure.

African Mask Plant: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your african mask plant 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 cut off the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors once they are mostly yellow. This helps the plant focus its energy on new, healthy growth.
Is my plant dying if it has one yellow leaf?: Not necessarily. If the rest of the plant looks firm and green, it is likely just shedding an old leaf.

Why are the leaves on my African Mask Plant turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your african mask plant?

Likely causes

Inconsistent Watering

Too Much Direct Sunlight

Find out what's wrong with your african mask plant

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

African Mask Plant: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

More problems with African Mask Plant