sunburn

What you’re seeing

Bleached, paper-thin spots or broad patches on leaves exposed to direct sun through glass or outdoors; often tan/white with crisp edges. Adjacent shaded areas stay normal.

What it is

Surface tissue burn from direct sun exceeding the leaf’s tolerance. Common after moving shade plants into bright sun or during heat spikes.

Is action needed?

Yes—protect and gradually acclimate.

How to confirm

Pattern: Most severe on the sun-facing side; hard edges where sun strikes.
Timing: Appears after a bright, hot day or a move to a sunny window/patio.

What to do

Shift to bright, indirect light or add sheer curtains.
Maintain steady moisture so remaining leaves can function.
Leave partially damaged leaves until new growth replaces them.
Reintroduce sun gradually if desired, increasing exposure over 1–2 weeks.

Prevention tips

Acclimate after purchases or seasonal moves.
Provide midday shade for tender species; morning sun is gentler.
Mind glass magnification—south/west windows can be intense.

Sunscald is an acute burn event; sunburn is common sun-exposure burn.
Light excess without burn presents as generalized fading, not crisp necrosis.