If a plant's leaves are whitish, what does that mean?

Question

They are not yellow, they are white

Answer 1

If the white appearance is because of a lack of color in the foliage, it's likely sun damage. Too much sun or being put out in direct sun without acclimating to it can sunburn the leaves. This destroys the chlorophyll and the foliage will die off. But, it probably won't kill the plant. You just have to wait for more foliage to grow out.

If the white color is like a film or powder on the leaves, this is white powdery mildew. This mildew can be rinsed off with a strong fine spray of water, but not so strong that it hurts the plant. White powdery mildew can then be controlled by applying neem oil (organic mildew control, found at better nurseries). Make sure to get both sides of the leaves.

For a mildew infestation, you should also remove any organic material around the plant (leaves, mulch, etc.) and throw it away. The mildew spores that fall into the bedding can be blown up by the wind, reinfesting the plant.

Answer 2

paul is right except he left out that sometimes plants are white in color as is. i have one that is green and white when usually you can only get them in green only. i have had it for years and it still looks like that.