Does my plant need a humidifier?

A humidifier is helpful if your home is very dry, but a pebble tray is often enough for a Dracaena.

Will the curled leaves flatten out?

Usually, once a leaf has curled due to stress, it will not return to its original flat shape. Focus on keeping new growth healthy.

Why are my Dracaena bicolor leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the proximity to heaters or air conditioning vents.
Feel the air around the leaves to see if it feels very dry.
Inspect the leaves for any signs of pests that might cause curling.

Likely causes

Low Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The leaf edges curl inward and the tips become dry and crispy. This is very common in homes with central heating or air conditioning.
What to do: Place the plant on a pebble tray filled with water to increase local humidity. You can also group it with other plants to create a more humid microclimate.
Temperature Stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves curl when the plant is too close to a heat vent or a cold window draft. The foliage may look dull or faded.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with stable temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep it away from direct airflow from vents or exterior doors.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your bicolor song of india

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 significant yellowing or leaf drop. Slight curling on new growth can sometimes happen as the leaf unfurls.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant away from direct heat sources and maintain consistent indoor temperatures.

Bicolor Song of India: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your bicolor song of india 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

Does my plant need a humidifier?: A humidifier is helpful if your home is very dry, but a pebble tray is often enough for a Dracaena.
Will the curled leaves flatten out?: Usually, once a leaf has curled due to stress, it will not return to its original flat shape. Focus on keeping new growth healthy.

Why are my Dracaena bicolor leaves curling?