Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to help the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.

Can low light cause yellow leaves?

Yes, if the plant does not get enough bright indirect light, it may struggle and lose older leaves.

Beefsteak plant: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top inch of soil to check for dampness.
Inspect the drainage holes for standing water.
Look for tiny pests like aphids on the undersides of leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy and the soil remains damp for more than a week.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out completely before adding more water. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look yellow but feel crispy or papery to the touch.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until liquid runs out of the bottom of the pot. Stick to a schedule of checking the soil every 3 to 7 days.

Yellow leaves on 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 the oldest, lowest leaves to yellow and drop as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing is happening on many leaves at once or on new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering routine and ensure the soil is well draining.

Beefsteak plant: yellow leaves? 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

Should I cut off the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors to help the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.
Can low light cause yellow leaves?: Yes, if the plant does not get enough bright indirect light, it may struggle and lose older leaves.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Beefsteak plant's leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your beefsteak plant?