Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. They will not turn green again and removing them helps the plant focus energy on healthy growth.

Can low light cause yellow leaves?

Yes, if the plant does not get enough bright indirect light, it may shed older leaves to conserve energy. Move it closer to a window without direct sun.

African Fig: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger two inches into the soil to test for moisture.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Check the underside of the leaves for signs of pests.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. You might also notice a damp, musty smell coming from the soil.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top three inches of soil dry out completely. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape. If the soil stays wet for more than a week, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil.
Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow, look dull, and feel crispy or brittle. The soil will pull away from the edges of the pot.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough soak until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a schedule where you water every 7 to 14 days when the top two inches of soil feel dry. Do not let the root ball dry out entirely for long periods.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your african fig

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. Worry if multiple leaves yellow at once or if the yellowing spreads to new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top two inches of soil are dry and keep the plant in bright, indirect light.

African Fig: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your african fig 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 snip them off with clean scissors. They will not turn green again and removing them helps the plant focus energy on healthy growth.
Can low light cause yellow leaves?: Yes, if the plant does not get enough bright indirect light, it may shed older leaves to conserve energy. Move it closer to a window without direct sun.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Ficus cyathistipula leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your african fig?