Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can remove them with clean shears. They will not turn green again and just drain energy from the plant.

Does light affect leaf color?

Too much direct sun can bleach leaves, making them look pale or yellow. Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Never Never Plant: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Ensure the pot has proper drainage holes.
Look for signs of root rot in the soil.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy. The soil stays wet for a long time after watering.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and become crispy or dry at the edges. The soil pulls away from the sides of the pot.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a schedule where you check the soil every 5 to 10 days.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your never never plant

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 leaves to yellow and drop as the plant grows. If multiple leaves yellow at once, investigate your watering habits.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule and always check the soil moisture before adding more water.

Never Never Plant: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your never never plant 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 remove them with clean shears. They will not turn green again and just drain energy from the plant.
Does light affect leaf color?: Too much direct sun can bleach leaves, making them look pale or yellow. Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Never Never Plant's leaves turning yellow?