Will my leaves uncurl once I treat the aphids?

The existing leaves that are already distorted will likely stay that way. However, the new growth should emerge healthy and flat once the pest pressure is removed.

Should I prune off the curled leaves?

You can trim them for aesthetic reasons if you like. Just make sure not to remove too much foliage at once, as the plant needs those leaves to produce energy.

Why are my Abelia chinensis leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for tiny aphids.
Check the soil moisture to see if the plant is thirsty.
Observe if the leaves uncurl once the sun goes down.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small green or black insects clustering on the soft new growth. The leaves may look distorted or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. If they flatten back out at night, the plant is just reacting to the sun.
What to do: Ensure the plant is getting deep waterings every 7 to 14 days when the top inch of soil is dry. If the heat is extreme, provide a bit of afternoon shade to protect the foliage.

Find out what's wrong with your glossy abelia

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry if the leaves stay curled permanently or begin to turn yellow and drop. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during a very hot afternoon as a natural defense.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your Abelia healthy with consistent watering and monitor for pests early in the spring when new growth starts.

Keep your glossy abelia healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Will my leaves uncurl once I treat the aphids?: The existing leaves that are already distorted will likely stay that way. However, the new growth should emerge healthy and flat once the pest pressure is removed.
Should I prune off the curled leaves?: You can trim them for aesthetic reasons if you like. Just make sure not to remove too much foliage at once, as the plant needs those leaves to produce energy.

Why are my Abelia chinensis leaves curling?