sunscald

What you’re seeing

Sudden, sharply defined patches that turn white/tan, then brown and crispy after an exposure event (e.g., moving a shade plant into strong sun). Often affects the sun-facing side only.

What it is

Acute tissue injury from intense light + heat beyond the plant's tolerance. Unlike general “too much light,” this is a burn event rather than slow fading.

Is action needed?

Yes—prevent further injury and let the plant replace damaged leaves.

How to confirm

Event history: Recent move, heatwave, reflective surface glare, or sudden loss of shade.
Pattern: Hard-edged, bleached patches; the rest of the plant may be fine.
Location: Predominantly on the side facing the light source.

What to do

Relocate to bright, indirect light or filter with sheers.
Maintain even moisture (not soggy) to support recovery.
Leave lightly damaged leaves until new growth replaces them; remove only fully necrotic tissue.
Re-acclimate gradually if returning to higher light: increase intensity over 1–2 weeks.

Prevention tips

Acclimate after any move.
Avoid placing shade-adapted plants in glass-magnified sun (south/west windows) without filtering.

Sunburn is direct-sun burn; sunscald is a sudden, severe event.
Heat-source damage from lamps/radiators can look similar but is centered nearest the device.