Should I cut off yellow leaves?

Wait until the leaves are completely brown and dry before cutting them. This allows the bulb to absorb the remaining nutrients for next year.

Does yellowing mean my bulb is dying?

Not necessarily, as it is often just the plant preparing for its dormant phase. If the bulb itself feels firm, it is likely healthy.

Star of Bethlehem: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger an inch deep.
Inspect the base of the plant for signs of soft or mushy tissue.
Verify that your pot has drainage holes at the bottom.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel mushy and the soil stays wet for a long time. You might notice a faint musty smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil is waterlogged, repot the bulb into fresh, well draining potting mix.
Natural Dormancy
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and die back naturally after the flowering period ends. This is a normal part of the plant life cycle.
What to do: Allow the foliage to wither completely before trimming it back. Reduce watering significantly while the bulb rests in a cool, dry place.

Find out what's wrong with your star of bethlehem

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 leaves to yellow after the plant finishes blooming. Be concerned if yellowing happens while the plant is actively growing and the soil is dry.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top half of the soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure your potting mix contains perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Keep your star of bethlehem healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Should I cut off yellow leaves?: Wait until the leaves are completely brown and dry before cutting them. This allows the bulb to absorb the remaining nutrients for next year.
Does yellowing mean my bulb is dying?: Not necessarily, as it is often just the plant preparing for its dormant phase. If the bulb itself feels firm, it is likely healthy.

Why are my Star of Bethlehem leaves turning yellow?