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Pagoda flower · Clerodendrum paniculatum

Why are my Pagoda flower leaves curling?

It is less common for a Pagoda flower to have curling leaves, so this usually points to a pest infestation or a sudden change in humidity. Check the undersides of your leaves for tiny insects first.

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curling leaves on a plant
Photo: Freshclover, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small insects or webbing.
  2. Check the soil moisture to ensure it is not too dry.
  3. Look for signs of sticky residue on the foliage.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

    How to tell: You will see small clusters of soft bodied insects on the new growth or the undersides of leaves. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock them off. Follow up by applying neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

  2. Spider Mites

    Possible

    How to tell: Leaves look stippled or speckled with tiny yellow dots and may have fine webbing between stems. These pests thrive in dry, hot air.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant by using a pebble tray or humidifier. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth and treat with insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pagoda flower

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.

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When to worry

Worry if the curling is accompanied by yellowing or if the pests are spreading to other plants. It is normal for very young leaves to look slightly wavy as they unfurl.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in a spot with good air circulation and maintain consistent soil moisture. Regularly wiping down leaves helps keep pests away.

Pagoda flower: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pagoda flower 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.

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Questions people ask

Will my leaves uncurl once the pests are gone?
Usually, the affected leaves will remain curled even after the pests are removed. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy and flat.
Can low humidity cause curling?
Yes, Pagoda flowers prefer moderate to high humidity. If the air is too dry, the leaves may curl to conserve moisture.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Pagoda flower

Back to the Pagoda flower guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.