Troubleshooting
Alexandra Palm problems — and how to fix them
Alexandra Palm (Archontophoenix alexandrae) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Brown frond tips
Low humidity, dry air or underwatering. Raise humidity and keep the rootball evenly moist.
Yellowing older fronds
Often potassium or magnesium deficiency. Use a complete palm fertiliser with micronutrients.
Spider mites
Thrive in hot dry indoor air. Inspect frond undersides, rinse foliage and raise humidity.
Cold damage
Frost blackens fronds and can kill the growing point. Keep above 10°C and protect from cold draughts.
Prevent alexandra palm problems before they start
Most alexandra palm issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for alexandra palm in general rather than its problems? Read the full alexandra palm care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Alexandra Palm problems — FAQ
Why is my alexandra palm brown frond tips?
Low humidity, dry air or underwatering. Raise humidity and keep the rootball evenly moist.
Why is my alexandra palm yellowing older fronds?
Often potassium or magnesium deficiency. Use a complete palm fertiliser with micronutrients.
Why is my alexandra palm spider mites?
Thrive in hot dry indoor air. Inspect frond undersides, rinse foliage and raise humidity.
Why is my alexandra palm cold damage?
Frost blackens fronds and can kill the growing point. Keep above 10°C and protect from cold draughts.