Are aphids harmful to my plant?

Yes, they suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth or leaf distortion. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.

Will the leaves uncurl?

If the curling was caused by heat, they should uncurl once the plant is hydrated and the air cools. If caused by pests, the existing leaves may stay distorted, but new growth should look healthy.

Smooth hawksbeard: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects.
Check if the soil is dry and needs water.
Observe if the curling happens only during the hottest part of the day.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You see small, soft bodied insects clustering on the stems or undersides of leaves. The leaves may look distorted or sticky from honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock the aphids off. For persistent infestations, use a mild insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. The plant looks wilted but perks up in the evening.
What to do: Provide some light shade during the peak afternoon heat if temperatures exceed 90 degrees. Ensure you are watering consistently so the soil does not dry out completely.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your smooth hawksbeard

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

Curling due to heat is normal and temporary. Worry if the leaves remain curled even after the plant has been watered and the temperature has cooled down.

Stopping it coming back

Keep an eye out for pests early in the season and provide consistent water during heat waves. Healthy, well watered plants are less attractive to aphids.

Smooth hawksbeard: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your smooth hawksbeard 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

Are aphids harmful to my plant?: Yes, they suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth or leaf distortion. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.
Will the leaves uncurl?: If the curling was caused by heat, they should uncurl once the plant is hydrated and the air cools. If caused by pests, the existing leaves may stay distorted, but new growth should look healthy.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my Smooth hawksbeard leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your smooth hawksbeard?