Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can trim them off with clean shears once they are mostly yellow. This keeps the plant looking tidy and allows it to focus energy on new growth.

Can low humidity cause yellow leaves?

While low humidity usually causes brown tips, it can stress the plant enough to cause general yellowing. Keep humidity levels moderate to keep your plant happy.

Bird of paradise: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the top inch of soil for dampness.
Inspect the drainage holes for blockages.
Check if the plant is getting enough direct sun.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. You might also notice a damp, musty smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 to 3 inches of soil dry out completely. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape. In the future, only water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Insufficient Light
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves slowly lose their deep green color and turn pale yellow, especially those further from the light source. The plant may also look stretched out.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot that receives bright, indirect light for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. If your home is dim, consider placing it near a south or west facing window. You can use a grow light to supplement if natural light is limited.

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, lowest leaf to yellow and die as the plant grows. Worry if multiple leaves yellow at once or if the new growth looks pale.

Stopping it coming back

Stick to a consistent watering schedule and ensure the plant gets plenty of bright light to keep the foliage healthy.

Keep your bird of paradise 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 the yellow leaves?: Yes, you can trim them off with clean shears once they are mostly yellow. This keeps the plant looking tidy and allows it to focus energy on new growth.
Can low humidity cause yellow leaves?: While low humidity usually causes brown tips, it can stress the plant enough to cause general yellowing. Keep humidity levels moderate to keep your plant happy.

Why are my Bird of Paradise leaves turning yellow?