Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Check the humidity level in the room.
- Look for white crust on the soil surface.
- Check if the plant is near a heater or air vent.
Likely causes
Low humidity
Most likelyHow to tell: The tips of the leaves become dry, crispy, and brown. This is common in homes with central heating.
What to do: Mist the leaves regularly or place the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. You can also use a humidifier nearby.
Mineral buildup
PossibleHow to tell: Brown tips appear even when humidity is fine. You might see white crust on the soil surface.
What to do: Flush the soil with distilled or filtered water to wash away excess salts. Use a pot with good drainage to help the salts exit.
When to worry
Minor browning is common in indoor environments. Worry if the brown patches grow to cover most of the leaf.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the plant away from direct airflow and use filtered water if your tap water is very hard.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your bodhi tree.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Can I trim the brown tips off?
- Yes, you can trim the brown parts. Try to follow the natural shape of the leaf and avoid cutting into the green tissue.
- Does tap water hurt my Bodhi tree?
- Some plants are sensitive to chlorine or minerals in tap water. If you see persistent brown tips, try using filtered water.
More problems with Bodhi tree
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.