Can I trim the brown tips off?

Yes, you can trim them for aesthetic reasons. Use clean, sharp scissors and cut just outside the green tissue.

Is this caused by fertilizer burn?

It is possible if you have recently applied too much fertilizer. Flush the soil with plenty of water to wash away excess salts.

Oregon Grape: brown tips, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the top inch of soil is dry.
Observe if the plant is in direct afternoon sun.
Feel if the brown tips are crispy or soft.

Likely causes

Dehydration
Most likely
How to tell: The tips of the leaves become dry, brittle, and brown. This happens when the plant loses more water than it can take up from the soil.
What to do: Water the plant deeply every 7 to 14 days. Ensure the water reaches down to the root zone by watering slowly.
Sun scorch
Possible
How to tell: The brown tips appear mostly on the side of the plant facing the hot afternoon sun. The rest of the leaf may look healthy but slightly faded.
What to do: Install a shade cloth or move the plant to a location with partial shade. Mulch around the base to keep the roots cool.

Brown tips on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your oregon grape

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

Brown tips are usually a minor issue and not a sign of imminent death. If the browning moves inward to the leaf stem, you should adjust your watering routine.

Stopping it coming back

Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain soil moisture. Water consistently during dry spells.

Oregon Grape: brown tips? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your oregon grape 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 trim the brown tips off?: Yes, you can trim them for aesthetic reasons. Use clean, sharp scissors and cut just outside the green tissue.
Is this caused by fertilizer burn?: It is possible if you have recently applied too much fertilizer. Flush the soil with plenty of water to wash away excess salts.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are the tips of my Oregon grape leaves turning brown?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your oregon grape?