Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.

Does low light cause yellow leaves?

Yes, if the plant is in a very dark corner, it may struggle to process water and turn yellow. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Pinstripe Calathea: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top inch of soil to see if it is soggy.
Check the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Observe if the yellowing is on older leaves at the base.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy and the soil stays wet for a long time. You might notice a musty smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Water Quality
Most likely
How to tell: The yellowing starts at the edges or tips and spreads inward while the soil moisture seems correct. This happens because the plant is sensitive to minerals and chlorine in tap water.
What to do: Switch to using distilled or filtered water. Let your tap water sit out overnight before using it to allow some chemicals to evaporate.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pinstripe calathea

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 die off as the plant grows. You should worry if multiple leaves yellow at once or if the new growth is affected.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule and use filtered water to keep your plant happy. Keep the soil slightly moist but never waterlogged.

Pinstripe Calathea: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pinstripe calathea 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 with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.
Does low light cause yellow leaves?: Yes, if the plant is in a very dark corner, it may struggle to process water and turn yellow. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Why are my Pinstripe Calathea's leaves turning yellow?