Check these first
- Check for cold or hot drafts near the plant.
- Feel the soil to see if it is bone dry.
- Inspect the leaves for signs of pests that might cause curling.
Likely causes
Temperature Stress
PossibleHow to tell: The leaves curl inward or downward when the plant is exposed to cold drafts or hot air blasts. The edges may also feel dry or brittle.
What to do: Move the plant away from air conditioning vents, heaters, or drafty doors. Keep the room temperature stable between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Underwatering
PossibleHow to tell: The leaves will curl and lose their firm texture as the plant loses moisture. The soil will be very dry and pulled away from the sides of the pot.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a consistent schedule of watering every 7 to 10 days.
Find out what's wrong with your banyan tree
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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
When to worry
Curling is a sign of stress that needs attention before the leaves start to drop. It is normal for very old leaves to curl slightly before they eventually fall off.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the plant in a stable environment away from temperature fluctuations and maintain a regular watering routine.
Banyan tree: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your banyan tree 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Will my leaves uncurl once I fix the problem?
- Usually, the curled leaves will not flatten out again. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy and flat.
- Is curling a sign of pests?
- Sometimes pests like thrips can cause leaves to curl or distort. Check the leaves closely for any tiny insects or webbing.
Guides to these causes
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- Why does my Ficus benghalensis have spots on its leaves?
- Why is my Ficus benghalensis growing so leggy?
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.

