Why Are My Cordyline Leaves Turning Yellow? Causes & Fixes

Cordyline leaves can turn yellow for several reasons, ranging from natural ageing to environmental stress. The most common causes are overwatering, poor drainage, nutrient deficiencies, low light, or pest problems. Some yellowing is normal on older leaves, but widespread or sudden yellowing signals a problem. The good news is that cordylines usually bounce back once the underlying issue is fixed. Below we explain the main reasons for yellowing leaves and how to restore your cordyline’s vibrant foliage with the right care and feeding.

Main Causes of Yellow Cordyline Leaves

Overwatering: Waterlogged soil suffocates roots, leading to soft, yellowing leaves. This is the most common cause in pots or heavy soils.
Underwatering: If the soil dries completely, leaves may yellow, crisp, and drop off.
Poor Drainage: Compacted or clay soils trap water, increasing stress on roots and causing discolouration.
Nutrient Deficiency: Lack of nitrogen causes pale yellow leaves, while potassium and magnesium shortages may cause spotting or edges to yellow.
Light Problems: Insufficient light indoors can lead to fading and yellowing leaves, while harsh direct sun can scorch them.
Pests & Disease: Mealybugs, scale, or fungal issues may cause localised yellow patches.
Natural Ageing: Lower leaves yellow and drop off naturally as the plant directs energy to new growth at the crown.

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How to Fix Yellowing Cordyline Leaves

Once you’ve identified the likely cause, you can take targeted steps to restore your cordyline’s health. The key is balancing watering, ensuring proper light, and feeding consistently to avoid deficiencies.

Check Soil Moisture: Feel the top 5–7 cm of soil. If it’s soggy, hold back watering and improve drainage. If bone dry, water deeply.
Inspect Roots: Lift potted plants to check for root rot. Trim away blackened roots and repot in free-draining mix.
Adjust Watering Routine: Outdoors, water once or twice weekly in summer. Indoors, water every 7–10 days when the top soil dries.
Improve Light: Place indoor cordylines in bright, indirect light. Outdoors, avoid extreme shade or scorching full sun.
Feed Regularly: Use a balanced NPK fertiliser like CompleteGrow 20-20-20 every 3–4 weeks during spring and summer. This replenishes nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for strong growth and vibrant foliage.
Prune Damaged Leaves: Remove old or yellowed leaves to encourage new growth and keep plants tidy.
Treat Pests: Wipe affected leaves with a damp cloth and apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if pests are present.

Cordylines are resilient — with the right adjustments, most plants recover quickly. Fresh green shoots often appear within weeks once proper watering and feeding routines are restored.

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Cordyline Yellow Leaves FAQs

Why are the bottom leaves on my cordyline going yellow?
This is usually natural ageing. Older leaves die back as the plant focuses on new growth at the top.

Why does my cordyline have yellow spots?
Yellow spotting may indicate a nutrient deficiency, pest attack, or fungal disease. Check for pests and apply a balanced fertiliser to correct deficiencies.

Can fertiliser fix yellow leaves on a cordyline?
Yes — if caused by a nutrient shortage. Feeding with CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 provides nitrogen for leaf colour and potassium for overall plant strength.

Should I cut off yellow cordyline leaves?
Yes. Removing yellow or damaged leaves tidies the plant and encourages energy into healthy new growth.

Most cases of yellow cordyline leaves are easy to fix by adjusting care. With consistent watering, bright light, and a regular fertiliser schedule, your cordyline will regain its lush, vibrant colour and stay healthy year-round.