Should I cut off the curled leaves?

If the leaves are completely brown and crispy, you can snip them off. If they are just curled but still green, they may flatten out once the plant is properly hydrated.

Does this mean my plant is dying?

Not necessarily, but it is a sign that your plant is unhappy. Adjusting the water or light usually helps it recover within a few days.

Why are my Alternanthera leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it is dry.
Check the location to ensure it is not getting harsh direct sun.
Look for signs of wilting in the stems.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves will feel thin and start to curl inward as the plant tries to conserve moisture. The soil will feel dry and pull away from the edges of the pot.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough soak until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a schedule where the soil stays evenly moist to the touch.
Excessive Heat or Light
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl and may show scorched or crispy edges from too much direct sun. This often happens if the plant is moved suddenly to a brighter spot.
What to do: Move the plant to a location with bright, indirect light. If it is outdoors, provide some afternoon shade to protect it from the harshest sun.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your joyweed

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

If the leaves are curling and turning brown or crispy, the plant is under significant stress. Minor curling that resolves after watering is just the plant telling you it is thirsty.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering routine so the soil never fully dries out. Provide stable light conditions to prevent the plant from reacting to sudden environmental changes.

Joyweed: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your joyweed 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

Should I cut off the curled leaves?: If the leaves are completely brown and crispy, you can snip them off. If they are just curled but still green, they may flatten out once the plant is properly hydrated.
Does this mean my plant is dying?: Not necessarily, but it is a sign that your plant is unhappy. Adjusting the water or light usually helps it recover within a few days.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Alternanthera leaves curling?