Zantedeschia aethiopica (Purple) Brown Leaf Tips - Causes & Fixes

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Low Humidity / Dry Air

Calla Lilies thrive in humid environments; dry indoor air causes the edges of the leaves to desiccate and turn brown. This is particularly common when the plant is kept near heating vents or in air-conditioned rooms.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Check if the leaf tips are crispy and if your indoor humidity levels have dropped below 50%.

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1 Increase local humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water or using a humidifier nearby.

Bleuhome 6-Pack 6in Plant Saucers Black

Pot Saucers

$6

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2 Mist the foliage regularly with a fine spray to provide immediate moisture to the leaves.

Flora Premium Plant Mister

Spray Bottles

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3 Move the plant away from direct drafts, heating vents, or air conditioning units to prevent rapid moisture loss.

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Salt or Mineral Buildup

Accumulation of fertilizers or hard water minerals (calcium/magnesium) in the soil can cause osmotic stress, leading to tip burn. This is common in Zantedeschia when using tap water with high mineral content.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Look for a white, crusty residue on the soil surface or the edges of the pot.

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1 Flush the soil thoroughly with distilled or rainwater to leach out accumulated mineral salts and prevent further osmotic stress.

2 Repot the plant in fresh, high-quality potting soil to provide a clean environment free of existing mineral buildup.

Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix

15.1 L

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3 Supplement with a calcium and magnesium boost to help balance the nutrient levels and strengthen cell walls.

FoxFarm Bush Doctor Cal Mag Liquid Supplement 1 Quart

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Inconsistent Watering

Allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings causes the leaf margins to die back. Zantedeschia aethiopica prefers consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil.

Common

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How to confirm: Insert your finger two inches into the soil to see if it has become bone-dry before the last watering.

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1 Monitor soil moisture levels closely using an analog meter to ensure the soil stays consistently moist without becoming waterlogged.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

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2 Adjust your watering schedule to prevent the soil from drying out completely between sessions, maintaining a steady moisture level.

3 Trim away the dead brown leaf tips with clean shears to improve the plant's appearance and prevent further decay.

Fiskars 5/8" Bypass Pruning Shears

Cutting Tools

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Fungal Leaf Spot (Phytophthora)

While usually presenting as dark spots, advanced fungal infections caused by overwatering can manifest as necrotic (brown) tissue spreading from the tips. This often occurs when moisture sits on the foliage for extended periods.

Common

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How to confirm: Inspect if there are also dark, water-soaked lesions spreading from the brown tips toward the center of the leaf.

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1 Apply a fungicide to treat the infection and prevent the spread of Phytophthora to healthy tissue.