Are aphids harmful to my dogbane?

Yes, they suck the sap from the plant and can weaken it over time. They also leave behind a sticky substance that can attract other problems.

Should I cut off the curled leaves?

If the leaves are heavily infested or damaged, you can snip them off to help the plant focus on new growth. Otherwise, treat the infestation and let the plant recover.

Spreading dogbane: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the curled leaves for tiny bugs.
Check if the curling happens only during the hottest part of the day.
Feel the soil to see if the plant is thirsty.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see small clusters of tiny insects on the new growth or undersides of leaves, causing them to twist or curl.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. For persistent issues, use insecticidal soap every 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.
What to do: Provide a bit of afternoon shade if the plant is in an area with intense heat. Ensure you are watering deeply every 7 to 14 days to keep the root zone hydrated.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your spreading dogbane

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

It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during extreme heat as a natural defense mechanism. You should worry if the curling is accompanied by sticky residue or visible insect colonies.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with proper watering and inspect the new growth regularly for early signs of aphids.

Spreading dogbane: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your spreading dogbane 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 dogbane?: Yes, they suck the sap from the plant and can weaken it over time. They also leave behind a sticky substance that can attract other problems.
Should I cut off the curled leaves?: If the leaves are heavily infested or damaged, you can snip them off to help the plant focus on new growth. Otherwise, treat the infestation and let the plant recover.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my spreading dogbane leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your spreading dogbane?