---
title: "Should I prune this large leaf off my elephant ear? I have a new leaf…"
description: "Should I prune this large leaf off my elephant ear? I have a new leaf growth and have been trying to get it healthy again."
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/8YJLrBkOSo27kyNSisgUpA/65aea9edc29c0863facdce0d"
community: "Alocasia Aficionados"
author: "Alexis"
published: "2024-01-22T17:46:21.277Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/twtLtGMoFzJwSqPJvELKiXs0Qu0I6kLaoo8w5xhmuvw/7652a1bcbc404a438a5bc9ae43833ecd.webp?size=large"
---

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# Should I prune this large leaf off my elephant ear? I have a new leaf…

_Posted by Alexis on 2024-01-22_

Should I prune this large leaf off my elephant ear? I have a new leaf growth and have been trying to get it healthy again.

![Attachment 1 of 1](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/twtLtGMoFzJwSqPJvELKiXs0Qu0I6kLaoo8w5xhmuvw/7652a1bcbc404a438a5bc9ae43833ecd.webp?size=large)

## 4 comments

### molly commented on 2024-01-22

i would leave it until it’s completely dead. the plant will use the nutrients left in that leaf as it dies off. it’s up to you though. it wouldn’t hurt to remove but it’s not necessary. the new leaf looks healthy and promising!! good luck! 🌿

#### Alexis replied on 2024-01-22

If I did prune it would it be best to trim from the base of the stem?

#### molly replied on 2024-01-22

i usually cut it more than halfway down and let the stem dry out. then i peal the dried step from the plant and it comes off cleanly from the base.  
if you choose to leave it, new life could still come from that leaf if the stem feels healthy.

### Bodhi\_PlantMama commented on 2024-01-26

I ended up pruning mine because it was taking forever to die off. Either way you choose, I did notice once the dead leaf was gone, the amount of water it needed was significantly less. I definitely over watered mine giving it the same amount as before the leaf was gone. Not sure if that is normal, I’m a newbie, but that’s just something to keep in mind ☺️

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