Will my leaves uncurl once I water the plant?

Yes, if the curling was caused by dryness, the leaves should perk back up within a day or two of watering. If they remain curled, the roots may have suffered damage.

Does sun spurge need high humidity?

No, this plant prefers standard outdoor humidity levels. High humidity can actually lead to powdery mildew, which is a bigger concern than curling leaves.

Why are my sun spurge leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is bone dry or waterlogged.
Inspect the undersides of the leaves for any signs of pests.
Observe if the curling happens only during the hottest hours of the day.

Likely causes

Inconsistent Watering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves curl inward or look shriveled when the soil dries out too much between waterings. You might also notice the stems losing their upright posture.
What to do: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. If the top inch feels dry, give it a thorough soak until water drains from the bottom. Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl during the hottest part of the day when the plant is exposed to intense, direct sun. The foliage may also look slightly bleached or pale.
What to do: Ensure your sun spurge is in a spot with full sun but watch for extreme heat waves. If temperatures exceed 90 degrees, provide a bit of afternoon shade to protect the leaves.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sun spurge

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 brown, crispy edges or if the leaves start dropping off. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly if the plant is adjusting to a new, brighter location.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a steady watering schedule and keep the plant in a consistent, sunny spot to avoid environmental shock.

Sun spurge: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sun spurge 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 leaves uncurl once I water the plant?: Yes, if the curling was caused by dryness, the leaves should perk back up within a day or two of watering. If they remain curled, the roots may have suffered damage.
Does sun spurge need high humidity?: No, this plant prefers standard outdoor humidity levels. High humidity can actually lead to powdery mildew, which is a bigger concern than curling leaves.

Why are my sun spurge leaves curling?