Will my curled leaves flatten out again?

Usually, once a leaf has curled due to stress, it will stay that way. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy and flat.

Does my Begonia maculata need misting?

Misting does not provide lasting humidity and can actually encourage fungal issues like powdery mildew. Use a humidifier or a pebble tray instead.

Why are my Begonia maculata leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the top inch of soil to see if it is dry.
Check the humidity levels in the room.
Observe if the leaves are getting direct sunbeams.

Likely causes

Low Humidity
Most likely
How to tell: The leaf edges will look crispy or brown as they curl inward. This happens when the air in your home drops below 40 percent humidity.
What to do: Place your plant on a pebble tray filled with water or group it with other plants to create a humid microclimate. You can also run a humidifier nearby for 4 to 6 hours a day.
Excessive Light
Possible
How to tell: Leaves may curl and look bleached or pale if they are getting too much direct sun. Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light instead.
What to do: Move your begonia at least 3 feet away from a south or west facing window. If you must keep it there, hang a sheer curtain to soften the light.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your polka dot 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

Worry if the curling is accompanied by brown, brittle spots that spread rapidly. If the leaves are just slightly cupped but feel firm and healthy, your plant is likely fine.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your begonia in a spot with consistent, bright indirect light and maintain humidity levels above 50 percent.

Polka dot begonia: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your polka dot 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 stay that way. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy and flat.
Does my Begonia maculata need misting?: Misting does not provide lasting humidity and can actually encourage fungal issues like powdery mildew. Use a humidifier or a pebble tray instead.

Why are my Begonia maculata leaves curling?