Will my curled leaves flatten out again?

Usually, once a leaf has curled due to stress, it will not return to its original shape. Focus on keeping new growth healthy and flat.

Does low humidity cause curling?

Wax begonias are quite adaptable, but very dry indoor air can contribute to leaf curling. You can mist the area around the plant or use a pebble tray to increase local humidity.

Why are my wax begonia leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the top inch of soil to check for dryness.
Observe the plant during the hottest part of the day.
Inspect the leaves for signs of pests like aphids.

Likely causes

Heat Stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look crispy and curl inward during the hottest part of the day. This often happens when the plant is in direct afternoon sun.
What to do: Move your begonia to a spot with bright, indirect light. If it is outside, provide shade during the afternoon hours. Water the plant deeply if the soil feels dry.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The entire plant looks wilted and the leaves curl as they lose turgor pressure. The soil will feel dry and pull away from the edges of the pot.
What to do: Soak the soil thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Maintain a schedule where you water every 3 to 7 days, whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wax begonia

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 remain curled even after you water and move the plant to a cooler spot, the roots may be damaged. It is normal for older leaves to curl slightly as they age and prepare to drop.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your begonia in a consistent environment with steady moisture and protection from harsh, direct afternoon sun.

Wax Begonia: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wax begonia 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

Will my curled leaves flatten out again?: Usually, once a leaf has curled due to stress, it will not return to its original shape. Focus on keeping new growth healthy and flat.
Does low humidity cause curling?: Wax begonias are quite adaptable, but very dry indoor air can contribute to leaf curling. You can mist the area around the plant or use a pebble tray to increase local humidity.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my wax begonia leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your wax begonia?