Should I prune the curled leaves?

No, do not prune them yet. The leaves may recover once the tree is properly hydrated.

Is curling a sign of disease?

Sometimes curling can be an early symptom of fungal issues, but it is more frequently a reaction to environmental stress. Monitor the bark for lesions to rule out canker.

Why are my Pacific madrone leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil around the base to see if it is bone dry.
Observe if the leaves flatten out when the temperature drops at night.
Check for signs of leaf scorch on the edges.

Likely causes

Drought stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves will curl inward and may feel dry or brittle to the touch.
What to do: Water the tree deeply at the drip line to ensure moisture reaches the root zone. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to help retain soil moisture.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves curl during the hottest part of the day but often flatten out again by the evening.
What to do: Ensure the tree is well watered before a heat wave hits. Provide temporary shade if the tree is still young and struggling with intense afternoon sun.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pacific madrone

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

Worry if the leaves remain curled even after a deep watering or during cool weather. This could indicate root damage or a more serious issue like fungal canker.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule during the first few years of the tree's life. Use organic mulch to keep the roots cool and moist.

Pacific madrone: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pacific madrone 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 prune the curled leaves?: No, do not prune them yet. The leaves may recover once the tree is properly hydrated.
Is curling a sign of disease?: Sometimes curling can be an early symptom of fungal issues, but it is more frequently a reaction to environmental stress. Monitor the bark for lesions to rule out canker.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Pacific madrone leaves curling?