Troubleshooting
Cordyline problems — and how to fix them
Cordyline (Cordyline fruticosa) 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 leaf tips
Fluoride toxicity; switch to filtered or rainwater.
Fading colour
Insufficient light; move to brighter indirect light.
Yellow lower leaves
Old leaves shed normally as the cane forms.
Spider mites
Stippling and webbing in dry rooms; rinse foliage and raise humidity.
Prevent cordyline problems before they start
Most cordyline issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Cordyline problems — FAQ
Why is my cordyline brown leaf tips?
Fluoride toxicity; switch to filtered or rainwater.
Why is my cordyline fading colour?
Insufficient light; move to brighter indirect light.
Why is my cordyline yellow lower leaves?
Old leaves shed normally as the cane forms.
Why is my cordyline spider mites?
Stippling and webbing in dry rooms; rinse foliage and raise humidity.