Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Feel the soil to see if it has become bone dry.
- Check the plant's location for proximity to heaters or air conditioning vents.
- Examine the leaves for any signs of pests that might be stressing the plant.
Likely causes
Inconsistent watering
PossibleHow to tell: The tips become dry and crispy, and the soil feels very hard or pulls away from the edges of the pot.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until moisture runs out of the bottom drainage holes. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy.
Low humidity
PossibleHow to tell: The tips brown slowly over time, especially if the plant is kept near a heater or in a very dry room.
What to do: Move the plant away from direct heat sources like radiators or vents. You can also place a tray of pebbles and water near the base to increase local humidity.
Find out what's wrong with your cider gum
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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
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When to worry
Worry if the brown patches start moving inward toward the center of the leaf. It is normal for the very tips to brown slightly if the air is exceptionally dry during winter.
Stopping it coming back
Water on a regular schedule and keep the plant away from harsh drafts or heating elements.
Cider gum: brown tips? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your cider gum 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I trim the brown tips off?
- You can trim the brown tips with sharp, clean scissors. Try to follow the natural shape of the leaf so it looks natural.
- Does my eucalyptus need misting?
- Misting is generally not very effective for this plant. It is better to focus on consistent soil moisture and good air circulation.
More problems with Cider gum
- Why is my Cider gum wilting and showing root rot?
- What are these spots on my Cider gum leaves?
- Why is my Cider gum growing so leggy?
- Why are my Eucalyptus gunnii leaves turning yellow?
- Why is my Eucalyptus gunnii drooping?
- Why is my Eucalyptus gunnii dropping leaves?
- Are there bugs on my Eucalyptus gunnii?
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.