Should 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 to avoid damaging the healthy part of the leaf.

Does tap water cause brown tips?

Sometimes. If your tap water has high mineral content, it can cause salt buildup. Try using filtered or distilled water if the problem persists.

Bird of paradise: brown tips, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the top 2 inches of soil with your finger.
Look for dry, crispy edges on the leaves.
Assess the humidity levels in your room.

Likely causes

Low Humidity
Most likely
How to tell: The tips turn crisp and brown while the rest of the leaf remains green. This is common in homes with central heating or air conditioning.
What to do: Place a humidifier nearby or set the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. You can also group your plant with other tropicals to create a more humid microclimate.
Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels bone dry and pulls away from the edges of the pot. The leaves may also start to curl slightly.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Ensure you are watering every 7 to 14 days depending on how quickly the top 2 inches of soil dry out.

Brown tips on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your bird of paradise

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 bottom leaves to brown as they age. Worry if the browning is spreading rapidly to new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent watering habits and keep the plant away from direct drafts from heaters or vents.

Bird of paradise: brown tips? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your bird of paradise 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 trim the brown tips off?: Yes, you can trim them for aesthetic reasons. Use clean, sharp scissors and cut just outside the green tissue to avoid damaging the healthy part of the leaf.
Does tap water cause brown tips?: Sometimes. If your tap water has high mineral content, it can cause salt buildup. Try using filtered or distilled water if the problem persists.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Bird of Paradise leaves getting brown tips?