Will my curled leaves flatten out again?

Unfortunately, leaves that have already curled and hardened will not return to their original shape. Focus on keeping new growth healthy and flat.

Can too much light cause curling?

Yes, if the plant is getting too much direct sun, the leaves may curl to protect themselves from scorching. Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light instead.

Why are my coffee plant's leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the air humidity levels with a hygrometer.
Feel the soil to ensure it is not bone dry.
Inspect the leaves for any signs of pests hiding underneath.

Likely causes

Low Humidity
Most likely
How to tell: The edges of the leaves turn crispy and curl inward while the rest of the leaf looks dull. This often happens in winter when indoor heating dries out the air.
What to do: Place your plant on a pebble tray filled with water or use a room humidifier to keep levels above 50 percent. Mist the leaves lightly with a spray bottle every few days to add temporary moisture.
Temperature Stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves curl and may show signs of wilting even if the soil is moist. This occurs when the plant is sitting too close to a cold drafty window or a hot radiator.
What to do: Move your coffee plant to a spot with a steady temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep it away from air conditioning vents or heaters that blow directly on the foliage.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your coffee plant

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 curling is accompanied by widespread browning or leaf drop, the plant is in serious distress. Minor curling on just one or two leaves is usually just a reaction to a recent change in location.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent humidity and keep your plant in a stable, draft free location to prevent future curling.

Coffee plant: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your coffee plant 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?: Unfortunately, leaves that have already curled and hardened will not return to their original shape. Focus on keeping new growth healthy and flat.
Can too much light cause curling?: Yes, if the plant is getting too much direct sun, the leaves may curl to protect themselves from scorching. Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light instead.

Why are my coffee plant's leaves curling?