Are aphids harmful to my plant?

Yes, they suck the sap out of the plant and can stunt its growth. They also leave behind a sticky substance that can attract mold.

Should I prune curled leaves?

You can prune them if they look unsightly, but it is more important to treat the underlying pest issue first.

Flowering Maple: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the tips of new growth for clusters of aphids.
Check if the soil is too dry.
Look for sticky residue on the leaves.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small green or black insects clustered on new growth. The leaves look distorted and sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Wash the aphids off with a strong stream of water from a hose. Follow up with an application of neem oil or insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.
Low humidity
Possible
How to tell: The edges of the leaves curl inward and feel dry or brittle. This happens often in homes with dry heating or air conditioning.
What to do: Place your plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water to boost local humidity. You can also mist the leaves lightly every few days.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your flowering maple

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

Minor curling on very young leaves can be normal as they unfurl. If the curling is severe and affects the whole plant, it is a sign of stress.

Stopping it coming back

Check your plant weekly for pests and keep it away from direct air vents that dry out the air.

Flowering Maple: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your flowering maple and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Are aphids harmful to my plant?: Yes, they suck the sap out of the plant and can stunt its growth. They also leave behind a sticky substance that can attract mold.
Should I prune curled leaves?: You can prune them if they look unsightly, but it is more important to treat the underlying pest issue first.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my flowering maple's leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your flowering maple?