Should I fertilize my yellowing hebe?

No, do not fertilize a stressed plant. Wait until the yellowing stops and the plant shows signs of new, healthy growth.

Can too much sun cause yellow leaves?

Yes, intense direct sun can bleach leaves, making them look pale or yellow. Move the plant to a spot with partial shade if it gets hit by harsh afternoon sun.

New Zealand hebe: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the top inch of soil for moisture.
Check the underside of yellow leaves for fuzzy growth.
Inspect the pot for standing water.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and feel soft or mushy to the touch. The soil stays wet for a long time.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Downy Mildew
Possible
How to tell: Yellow patches appear on the upper leaf surface with fuzzy gray or white growth underneath. This happens in humid, stagnant air.
What to do: Prune away the affected leaves to improve airflow. Move the plant to a spot with better ventilation and avoid wetting the foliage when you water.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your new zealand hebe

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 a few older leaves near the base to yellow and drop as the plant grows. Worry if the yellowing spreads rapidly across new growth.

Stopping it coming back

Water only when the top inch of soil is dry and keep the plant in a spot with good air circulation.

New Zealand hebe: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your new zealand hebe 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 fertilize my yellowing hebe?: No, do not fertilize a stressed plant. Wait until the yellowing stops and the plant shows signs of new, healthy growth.
Can too much sun cause yellow leaves?: Yes, intense direct sun can bleach leaves, making them look pale or yellow. Move the plant to a spot with partial shade if it gets hit by harsh afternoon sun.

Guides to these causes

Downy Mildew

Why are my New Zealand hebe leaves turning yellow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your new zealand hebe?