Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors to help the plant focus energy on new growth.

Does low light cause yellowing?

Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, it may struggle to support its large leaves and start yellowing.

Elephant Ear: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it is soggy or bone dry.
Inspect the pot for drainage holes.
Check the base of the stems for signs of rot.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy, and the soil stays wet for a long time. You might notice a sour smell coming from the pot.
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.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look yellow but feel dry or crispy at the edges. The soil pulls away from the sides of the pot.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until liquid runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a consistent schedule every 3 to 7 days to keep the soil damp.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your elephant ear

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. Worry if multiple leaves yellow at once or if the newest growth is affected.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Use a well draining potting mix to prevent moisture buildup.

Elephant Ear: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your elephant ear 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 to help the plant focus energy on new growth.
Does low light cause yellowing?: Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, it may struggle to support its large leaves and start yellowing.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Elephant Ear leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your elephant ear?