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Purple cyclamen · Cyclamen purpurascens

Why are my purple cyclamen leaves curling?

Curling leaves are less common for this plant, usually caused by heat stress or low humidity. Check the temperature of your room first to ensure it is not too hot for this cool weather lover.

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

Check these first

  1. Check the room temperature to ensure it stays below 65 degrees.
  2. Feel the soil to see if it has dried out too much.
  3. Look at the underside of the leaves for any signs of pests.

Likely causes

  1. Heat stress

    Most likely

    How to tell: The leaves curl inward and feel dry to the touch. This happens when the plant is kept in a room above 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

    What to do: Move your plant to a cooler spot like a north facing window or an unheated porch. Keep the temperature between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit for the best results.

  2. Low humidity

    Possible

    How to tell: The edges of the leaves curl and turn crisp. This is common in homes with central heating during the winter months.

    What to do: Place your pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water to boost local humidity. Make sure the bottom of the pot sits above the water line so the roots do not rot.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your purple cyclamen

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 mushy stems, as this indicates root rot. It is normal for older leaves to curl slightly as they reach the end of their life cycle.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in a cool, draft free location and maintain consistent soil moisture. Avoid placing it near radiators or heating vents.

Purple cyclamen: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your purple cyclamen 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 I fix the temperature?
Usually, the existing leaves will not uncurl, but new growth will appear flat and healthy. You can trim off the curled leaves once new ones develop.
Does this plant need misting?
Misting is not recommended because it can encourage grey mold on the foliage. Use a pebble tray instead to increase humidity safely.

More problems with Purple cyclamen

Back to the Purple cyclamen 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.