Pothos Leaves Turning Black: Causes, Signs and How to Fix It

Black leaves on a Pothos plant can be alarming. In most cases, blackening is caused by overwatering, root rot, cold damage, or fungal issues. The faster you identify the cause, the higher the chance of saving the plant.

This complete guide explains why Pothos leaves turn black, how to diagnose the cause, and how to fix the problem.

Start here if you are new: Pothos Care Guide

Why Pothos Leaves Turn Black

Black leaves usually develop when leaf tissue is damaged and begins to die.

• Overwatering and root rot
• Cold damage / drafts
• Fungal leaf spots
• Severe underwatering
• Sunburn or heat stress
• Physical damage

Overwatering and Root Rot (Most Common Cause)

If the soil stays wet for many days, roots can rot and leaves may turn black.

• Wet soil that does not dry
• Yellow leaves first, then black
• Drooping even when soil is wet
• Soft stems near soil line

Watering guide: Pothos Watering Guide

Root rot guide: Pothos Root Rot

Yellow leaf guide: Pothos Yellow Leaves

Drooping guide: Pothos Leaves Drooping

Cold Damage (Drafts and Low Temperatures)

Pothos is a tropical plant and is sensitive to cold temperatures. Cold drafts can cause black patches or full blackening.

• Black areas after cold night
• Leaf becomes soft and watery
• Damage often starts near window edges

Winter guide: Pothos Winter Care

Fungal Leaf Spot

Fungal problems can create dark or black spots that spread.

• Small dark spots that enlarge
• Yellow halos around spots
• Moist conditions and poor airflow

Good care basics: Pothos Care Guide

Severe Underwatering

When a Pothos is extremely dry, leaf edges may turn brown first, then black and crispy.

Brown tip guide: Pothos Brown Tips

Curling guide: Pothos Leaves Curling

Sunburn or Heat Stress

Direct sun can burn leaves and create brown-to-black patches.

Light guide: Pothos Light Requirements

Poor Soil and Drainage

Heavy soil holds water and increases the risk of black leaves caused by root stress.

Soil guide: Pothos Soil Guide

Repotting guide: Pothos Repotting Guide

How to Fix Black Leaves on Pothos

• Check soil moisture and stop overwatering
• Inspect roots for rot
• Repot into fresh well-draining soil
• Move away from cold drafts
• Provide bright indirect light
• Remove severely damaged leaves

If your plant is severely affected, consider propagating healthy cuttings: Pothos Propagation Guide

Should You Remove Black Leaves?

Yes. Black tissue will not recover. Remove badly damaged leaves to help the plant focus on healthy growth.

When Black Leaves Indicate a Serious Issue

If leaves are turning black quickly and stems feel soft, act immediately. This is often advanced root rot.

Root rot guide: Pothos Root Rot

FAQ

Why are my Pothos leaves turning black?

The most common causes are overwatering, root rot, and cold damage.

Can black Pothos leaves turn green again?

No. Black leaf tissue is dead and will not recover.

Should I cut off black leaves?

Yes, remove severely damaged leaves to reduce stress and improve appearance.

Does root rot cause black leaves?

Yes, root rot can cause leaf yellowing followed by blackening.

Can cold air turn Pothos leaves black?

Yes, cold drafts can cause black patches and leaf collapse.