Yellowing leaves that drop

Overwatering or soggy roots. Let the soil dry more between waterings and check that the pot drains freely.

Brown, crispy leaf tips

Low humidity or inconsistent watering. Water on a steadier schedule and group it with other plants to raise humidity.

Too little light. Move closer to a bright indirect source and rotate it weekly.

Shock from a move, draft, or temperature swing. Keep it in a stable warm spot and give it time to settle.

Houseplants

A pet-safe little tree with a braided trunk and glossy hand-shaped leaves, said to bring good luck.

The free tool tailors timing to your climate and lets you save this plant.

Light

Bright, indirect

Where to put it

Bright indirect light is ideal. Rotate it regularly so it grows evenly, and keep it away from cold drafts.

Watering

About every 1–2 weeks, less in winter.

Soil mix

Well-draining potting mix; a peat-based mix with perlite or sand works well.

Pot

A pot with good drainage; terracotta helps wick away excess moisture.

Repotting

Every 2–3 years in spring, sizing up one pot at a time.

Propagation

Take a stem cutting with a few leaf nodes in spring and root it in water or moist soil. Moderately easy.

Pets

Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Yellowing leaves that drop. Overwatering or soggy roots. Let the soil dry more between waterings and check that the pot drains freely.
Brown, crispy leaf tips. Low humidity or inconsistent watering. Water on a steadier schedule and group it with other plants to raise humidity.
Leggy growth reaching for the window. Too little light. Move closer to a bright indirect source and rotate it weekly.
Sudden leaf drop. Shock from a move, draft, or temperature swing. Keep it in a stable warm spot and give it time to settle.