Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can gently pull them off or snip them with clean scissors. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.

Can yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not return to green. It is best to remove it once it dries up.

African milk tree: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger two inches deep into the soil to check for moisture.
Inspect the base of the stem for any signs of mushiness or discoloration.
Check that your pot has drainage holes at the bottom.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. The soil remains damp for more than a few days after watering.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the soil stays wet for over a week, repot the plant into a fresh, fast draining cactus mix.
Root Rot
Most likely
How to tell: Yellowing is accompanied by a darkening or blackening of the stem base. The plant may feel loose or wobbly in its pot.
What to do: Remove the plant from the pot and inspect the roots for mushy, dark, or foul smelling sections. Trim away any rotted roots with sterile shears and repot in dry, well draining soil.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your african milk tree

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 very bottom leaves to yellow and drop as the plant matures. You should worry if multiple leaves yellow at once or if the stem feels soft.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the soil is completely bone dry before watering again. Ensure your pot has excellent drainage to prevent standing water.

African milk tree: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your african milk tree 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 gently pull them off or snip them with clean scissors. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.
Can yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not return to green. It is best to remove it once it dries up.

Guides to these causes

Root Rot

Why are my African milk tree's leaves turning yellow?