Are aphids harmful to my plant?

Yes, they weaken the plant by sucking its sap and can spread viruses. It is best to treat them as soon as you see them.

Does this plant flower?

Yes, it produces small green flowers in clusters. It needs plenty of direct sun to bloom well.

Slender amaranth: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the new leaves for tiny bugs.
Check if the soil is dry and needs water.
Feel the leaves to see if they are brittle.

Likely causes

Aphids
Possible
How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustering on the new growth. The leaves may look distorted or curled as the pests suck the sap.
What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock the aphids off. You can also apply insecticidal soap once a week until the pests are gone.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. The edges may look slightly scorched.
What to do: Provide a bit of afternoon shade if the sun is extremely intense. Make sure to water every 2 to 4 days so the plant stays hydrated during heat waves.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your slender amaranth

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

Curling during the hottest part of the day is often a temporary reaction to heat. Worry if the leaves stay curled even in the cool of the morning.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant well watered and inspect the new growth weekly for any signs of aphids.

Slender amaranth: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your slender amaranth 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 weaken the plant by sucking its sap and can spread viruses. It is best to treat them as soon as you see them.
Does this plant flower?: Yes, it produces small green flowers in clusters. It needs plenty of direct sun to bloom well.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my slender amaranth's leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your slender amaranth?