Should I cut off yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and prevents potential rot.

Does too much sun cause yellowing?

No, this plant loves full sun. If it is yellowing, it is almost certainly a water or soil issue.

Antelope horns: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil two inches deep to check for moisture.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Look for signs of aphids on the undersides of the leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy and the soil stays damp for more than a few days. You might notice the yellowing starting from the bottom of the plant.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the soil stays wet, repot the plant into a well draining cactus mix. Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn a pale yellow while the veins remain green. This often happens if the plant has been in the same pot for years without fresh soil.
What to do: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer once in the spring. Do not overfeed, as this plant prefers lean, rocky soil. A light top dressing of fresh compost can also help.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your antelope horns

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

Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across the whole plant. It is normal for the oldest, lowest leaves to yellow and fall off as the plant grows.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Use a gritty, fast draining soil mix to prevent moisture buildup.

Antelope horns: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your antelope horns 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 yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and prevents potential rot.
Does too much sun cause yellowing?: No, this plant loves full sun. If it is yellowing, it is almost certainly a water or soil issue.

Why are my Antelope horns leaves turning yellow?