Can I propagate the stems I prune off?

Absolutely, the cuttings root very easily in water or moist soil. This is a great way to fill out your pot.

Will the stems fill back in?

They will not fill in where leaves have already fallen, but pruning will encourage new, fuller growth from those spots.

Why is my Beefsteak plant getting so leggy? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Move the plant closer to a bright window.
Prune the long stems back to a leaf node.
Rotate the pot weekly to ensure even light exposure.

Likely causes

Insufficient Light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems are long and thin with large gaps between the leaves.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with brighter indirect light, like near a south or west facing window. If you cannot provide enough natural light, consider using a grow light.
Lack of Pruning
Most likely
How to tell: The plant is tall and sparse even though it is getting decent light.
What to do: Pinch back the tips of the stems regularly to encourage bushier growth. This forces the plant to branch out instead of growing straight up.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your beefsteak plant

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 this plant to grow tall over time, but it should not look weak or sparse. If the stems are bending over under their own weight, it needs more light or a trim.

Stopping it coming back

Prune your plant every few months and keep it in a bright location.

Beefsteak plant: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your beefsteak plant 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

Can I propagate the stems I prune off?: Absolutely, the cuttings root very easily in water or moist soil. This is a great way to fill out your pot.
Will the stems fill back in?: They will not fill in where leaves have already fallen, but pruning will encourage new, fuller growth from those spots.

Why is my Beefsteak plant getting so leggy?