Why Are My Anthurium Leaves Turning Yellow?

Yellow leaves are one of the most common problems with anthuriums. While older leaves naturally yellow and die back as part of the plant’s life cycle, widespread yellowing usually signals a care issue. In most cases, the cause is linked to fertiliser imbalance, poor watering, or incorrect light conditions.

Anthuriums are sensitive to nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen, magnesium, and iron. If they are underfed, leaves lose their deep-green colour and fade to yellow. Over-fertilising, on the other hand, can burn the roots and also cause yellowing. Other factors such as overwatering, low humidity, or too little light can compound the issue.

Understanding whether yellowing is natural ageing or the result of a care problem is the first step to restoring your anthurium’s health.

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Main Causes of Yellow Leaves on Anthuriums

Several issues can cause anthurium leaves to yellow, but fertiliser and soil nutrition are often the key factors.

Nutrient Deficiency: Lack of nitrogen causes older leaves to yellow, while iron deficiency makes new leaves pale with green veins.
Over-Fertilisation: Too much fertiliser burns the roots, leading to widespread yellowing and brown tips.
Overwatering: Constantly soggy soil suffocates roots, preventing nutrient uptake.
Underwatering: Dry roots in summer stress the plant, causing leaves to fade and crisp.
Low Light: Without enough indirect light, the plant cannot photosynthesise efficiently, leading to pale foliage.

The quickest fix is to review feeding and watering. A balanced fertiliser like CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid NPK 20-20-20 or CompleteGrow Powdered 20-20-20 ensures steady nutrition while avoiding the salt build-up that causes fertiliser burn.

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FAQs: Yellowing Anthurium Leaves

Are yellow leaves on anthuriums normal?
Yes, older leaves naturally yellow and fall off. But if many leaves are affected at once, it’s a sign of a care problem.

What fertiliser fixes yellow leaves?
A balanced NPK fertiliser with micronutrients like iron and magnesium will restore green colour to new growth.

Can over-fertilising cause yellow leaves?
Yes. Excess salts damage roots and reduce nutrient uptake. Always follow label rates and water well after feeding.

How long does recovery take?
Old yellow leaves won’t turn green again, but with correct feeding and care, new growth should appear healthy within 4–6 weeks.