Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

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

Does yellowing mean my bulb is dying?

Not necessarily, but it is a warning sign that the roots are unhappy. Address the moisture levels quickly to save the bulb.

Crowpoison: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil moisture at the top inch.
Observe the light levels in your current spot.
Check the drainage holes for any blockages.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look soft or mushy and the soil feels constantly damp. You might notice a faint musty smell near the base of the plant.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil stays wet for more than a week, repot the bulb into a fresh, well draining cactus mix.
Insufficient Light
Possible
How to tell: The foliage becomes pale and weak while leaning heavily toward the nearest light source. Growth slows down significantly compared to other bulbs in the same spot.
What to do: Move your plant to a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you cannot provide enough natural light, place it under a bright grow light for 10 to 12 hours a day.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your crowpoison

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

Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly to the center of the plant or if the bulb feels soft. It is normal for the oldest, lowest leaves to yellow and die back as the plant enters dormancy.

Stopping it coming back

Always allow the top inch of soil to dry out before adding more water. Ensure your pot has plenty of drainage holes to prevent standing water.

Crowpoison: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your crowpoison 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 keep the plant looking tidy. This helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth.
Does yellowing mean my bulb is dying?: Not necessarily, but it is a warning sign that the roots are unhappy. Address the moisture levels quickly to save the bulb.

Why are my Crowpoison leaves turning yellow?