Should I cut off the yellow leaves?

Yes, you can snip them off with clean scissors. This keeps the plant looking tidy and helps you spot new issues quickly.

Can yellow leaves turn green again?

No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not return to green. It is best to remove it so the plant can focus energy on healthy growth.

Small-leaf spiderwort: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Poke your finger an inch into the soil to check for dampness.
Inspect the drainage holes to make sure they are not blocked.
Look at the stems to see if they are firm or mushy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel soft or mushy and the stems may look translucent near the base. You might also notice a musty smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering until the top inch of the soil is completely dry. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape. If the soil stays wet for more than a week, repot the plant into fresh, well draining potting mix.
Low Light
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks pale and the stems are stretching out with large gaps between leaves. The yellowing often starts on the older, lower leaves.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the foliage. If your home is dark, consider adding a small grow light nearby.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your small-leaf spiderwort

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 leaves at the base of the plant to yellow and drop as the plant grows. You should worry if multiple leaves are yellowing at once or if the stems feel soft.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before you water again. Keep the plant in bright, indirect light to maintain its health.

Small-leaf spiderwort: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your small-leaf spiderwort 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. This keeps the plant looking tidy and helps you spot new issues quickly.
Can yellow leaves turn green again?: No, once a leaf has turned yellow, it will not return to green. It is best to remove it so the plant can focus energy on healthy growth.

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