Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off at the base with clean scissors. They will not turn green again.

Does light affect leaf color?

Yes, too little light can cause the plant to lose its vibrant color. Move it to a brighter spot if it looks pale.

Cylindrical Snake Plant: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture level with your finger.
Feel the yellow leaves to see if they are mushy or dry.
Ensure the plant is not sitting in a dark corner.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow starting from the bottom and feel soft or limp. The soil is likely staying wet for too long.
What to do: Allow the soil to dry out completely for several weeks. Ensure your plant is in a bright spot to help it use up the excess moisture.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look yellow but feel dry, thin, or wrinkled. The soil has been bone dry for a very long time.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough watering until water runs out of the drainage holes. Resume a regular schedule of checking the soil every 14 to 30 days.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your cylindrical snake 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

A single old leaf at the very bottom turning yellow and shriveling is normal as the plant ages. If multiple leaves turn yellow at once, you need to adjust your care.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent schedule where you only water when the soil is completely dry. Provide bright, indirect light to keep the plant healthy.

Cylindrical Snake Plant: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your cylindrical snake 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 trim them off at the base with clean scissors. They will not turn green again.
Does light affect leaf color?: Yes, too little light can cause the plant to lose its vibrant color. Move it to a brighter spot if it looks pale.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Cylindrical Snake Plant leaves turning yellow?