Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy and direct energy to new growth.

Can low light cause yellowing?

Yes, if the plant does not get enough bright indirect light, it may struggle and lose its vibrant color.

Peruvian Lily: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top 2 inches of soil to check for dampness.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Look at the undersides of the leaves for any signs of pests.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly soggy and the lower leaves turn yellow and soft.
What to do: Let the top 2 inches of soil dry out before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn a pale yellow while the veins remain green.
What to do: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4 weeks during the growing season. This helps replenish the soil nutrients.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your peruvian 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

A few yellow leaves at the base of the plant are normal as it ages. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly to the top growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and use well draining potting mix to keep roots healthy.

Peruvian Lily: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your peruvian 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 cut off the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy and direct energy to new growth.
Can low light cause yellowing?: Yes, if the plant does not get enough bright indirect light, it may struggle and lose its vibrant color.

Why are my Peruvian lily leaves turning yellow?