Skip to content

black bindweed · Fallopia convolvulus

Why are my black bindweed leaves curling?

Curling leaves are less common for this plant, which usually happens due to extreme heat stress or intense direct sun exposure. Check the soil moisture first to see if the plant is simply thirsty.

Not sure it's this? Check a photo of your plant for free

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

Check these first

  1. Feel the soil to see if it is dry and needs water.
  2. Look at the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects.
  3. Observe if the curling happens only during the hottest hours.

Likely causes

  1. Heat Stress

    Most likely

    How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. They usually look limp and thin.

    What to do: Provide a bit of afternoon shade if temperatures exceed 90 degrees. Water the plant deeply in the morning so it is hydrated before the heat peaks.

  2. Aphid Infestation

    Possible

    How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustered on the undersides of the leaves. The leaves may look distorted or puckered.

    What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock the bugs off. Use insecticidal soap once a week if the infestation persists.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your black bindweed

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.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

When to worry

Curling during the heat of the day is a normal defense mechanism. If the leaves stay curled at night or show brown edges, it is a sign of stress.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist and provide a consistent watering schedule. Monitor the plant regularly for early signs of pests.

Black bindweed: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your black bindweed 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.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Do these plants flower?
Yes, they produce small white or pinkish flowers in the summer. They need full sun to bloom well.
Should I prune curled leaves?
Only prune them if they are brown and crispy. If they are just curled from heat, they will often flatten out once the plant is hydrated.

Guides to these causes

More problems with black bindweed

Back to the black bindweed 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.