Should I trim off the brown tips?

Yes, you can trim the brown parts with clean scissors. Just be careful not to cut into the green part of the leaf, as this can cause further damage.

Does tap water cause brown tips?

Sometimes, salts or minerals in tap water can build up and cause tip burn. If you suspect this, try using filtered or rainwater for a few weeks.

European fan palm: brown tips, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil two inches below the surface.
Check if the pot has proper drainage holes.
Observe the air circulation around the plant.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels bone dry deep down and the fronds look slightly brittle. The tips turn crispy and brown as the plant struggles to move water to the ends of the leaves.
What to do: Water the palm thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Ensure the top 2 to 3 inches of soil dry out before you water again. Stick to a schedule of every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat.
Low Humidity
Most likely
How to tell: The soil is moist but the tips are still turning brown. This happens because the air in your home is too dry for this Mediterranean palm.
What to do: Group your plants together to create a humid microclimate. You can also place a tray of pebbles and water under the pot to boost moisture around the leaves.

Brown tips on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european fan palm

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

Brown tips are rarely fatal but indicate your palm is stressed. If the brown area spreads rapidly toward the base of the leaf, check for root issues.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the plant away from direct heating vents.

European fan palm: brown tips? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european fan palm 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 trim off the brown tips?: Yes, you can trim the brown parts with clean scissors. Just be careful not to cut into the green part of the leaf, as this can cause further damage.
Does tap water cause brown tips?: Sometimes, salts or minerals in tap water can build up and cause tip burn. If you suspect this, try using filtered or rainwater for a few weeks.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my European fan palm's leaf tips turning brown?