Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. This also helps you monitor if the yellowing continues to spread.

Can too much sun cause yellow leaves?

No, Butterfly weed loves full sun. If your plant is yellowing, it is almost certainly a soil or water issue rather than light exposure.

Why are my Butterfly weed leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Feel the soil two inches deep to check for moisture.
Inspect the base of the stem for any signs of rot.
Check if the area has standing water after rain.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. The soil remains damp for many days after you last watered.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the soil is heavy, mix in some coarse sand or grit to improve drainage for next time.
Nutrient Deficiency
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn a pale yellow while the veins remain green. This usually happens if the plant has been in the same spot for many years without any compost.
What to do: Apply a light layer of organic compost around the base of the plant in early spring. Avoid heavy synthetic fertilizers as they can cause weak, rapid growth.

When to worry

It is normal for a few older leaves at the bottom to yellow as the plant matures. Worry only if the yellowing spreads rapidly to the top of the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure your Butterfly weed is planted in well draining soil and never water unless the top few inches of soil are dry.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your butterfly weed.

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 cut off the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. This also helps you monitor if the yellowing continues to spread.
Can too much sun cause yellow leaves?: No, Butterfly weed loves full sun. If your plant is yellowing, it is almost certainly a soil or water issue rather than light exposure.