Skip to content

redroot pigweed · Amaranthus retroflexus

Why are my redroot pigweed leaves curling?

It is less common for this plant to have curling leaves, but it usually happens due to extreme heat or inconsistent watering. Check if the soil is bone dry or if the plant is sitting in intense, scorching heat.

Not sure it's this? Check a photo of your plant for free

curling leaves on a plant
Photo: Freshclover, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Check if the soil is completely dry to the touch.
  2. Observe if the curling happens only during the hottest part of the day.
  3. Look for signs of pests that might be causing the leaves to distort.

Likely causes

  1. Dehydration

    Possible

    How to tell: The leaves will look thin, dry, and curl inward to conserve moisture. The soil will feel very dry and pull away from the edges of the pot.

    What to do: Give the plant a thorough watering until water runs out of the drainage holes. Keep the soil consistently moist for the next few days to help it recover.

  2. Heat Stress

    Possible

    How to tell: The leaves curl during the hottest part of the day even if the soil is moist. The edges of the leaves might look slightly crispy.

    What to do: Provide a bit of afternoon shade if the sun is too intense. Ensure the plant is well hydrated to help it cope with high temperatures.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your redroot pigweed

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.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

When to worry

Worry if the leaves stay curled even after you water the plant. If they are crispy and brown, the tissue has likely died.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the plant in a spot with good airflow.

Redroot pigweed: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your redroot pigweed 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.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

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

Questions people ask

Should I mist the leaves to stop the curling?
Misting does not really help with curling. It is better to ensure the roots are getting enough water.
Is it normal for leaves to curl in the sun?
Some curling during the peak heat of the day is a natural reaction to save water. It should flatten out by evening.

Guides to these causes

More problems with redroot pigweed

Back to the redroot pigweed guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.