Can I fix leggy stems?

You cannot make an existing long stem shorter, but you can prune it to encourage new, compact growth. The plant will fill out again with better light.

Will my plant stop being leggy if I fertilize it?

No, fertilizer will not fix legginess caused by low light. It will only make the plant grow faster in the wrong direction.

Xanadu Philodendron: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Assess the light levels in the plant's current location.
Rotate the pot to ensure all sides get even exposure.
Check if the plant has outgrown its current space.

Likely causes

Insufficient Light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems stretch out, becoming long and thin with large gaps between the leaves. The plant may also lean heavily toward the nearest window.
What to do: Move your plant to a brighter location that receives plenty of indirect light. If you cannot provide natural light, place it under a full spectrum grow light for 8 to 10 hours a day.
Lack of Pruning
Possible
How to tell: The plant is healthy but has grown very large and uneven over time. Older stems at the base may look sparse while the top remains bushy.
What to do: Trim back the longest, most awkward stems to encourage new growth from the base. Use clean, sharp shears and cut just above a leaf node.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your xanadu philodendron

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 not a health emergency, but rather a sign that the plant is unhappy with its environment. It is normal for older plants to lose some lower leaves as they age.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in bright, indirect light and rotate it every few weeks to promote even growth.

Xanadu Philodendron: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your xanadu philodendron 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 fix leggy stems?: You cannot make an existing long stem shorter, but you can prune it to encourage new, compact growth. The plant will fill out again with better light.
Will my plant stop being leggy if I fertilize it?: No, fertilizer will not fix legginess caused by low light. It will only make the plant grow faster in the wrong direction.

Why is my Xanadu Philodendron getting leggy?