Yes, they suck the sap from the plant and can stunt its growth. They also leave behind a sticky substance that can attract mold.

Will the leaves uncurl?

If the cause is heat stress, they will usually uncurl once the temperature drops. If the cause is aphids, the leaves might remain slightly distorted even after the pests are removed.

Why are my Galium album leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for aphids.
Check if the soil is dry and the plant needs water.
Observe if the curling happens only during the hottest part of the day.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You see small, soft bodied insects clustering on the tender new growth. The leaves may look distorted or sticky from honeydew.
What to do: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or spray the plant with a gentle stream of water. For a persistent infestation, use insecticidal soap once a week until the pests are gone.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. The plant looks thirsty and limp.
What to do: Move the plant to a location with afternoon shade. Water the plant thoroughly to ensure the root ball is hydrated.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your upright hedge bedstraw

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

Curling is serious if you see pests spreading to other plants or if the leaves remain curled even after the plant is watered and cooled down. Minor curling during a heatwave is a normal defense mechanism.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with proper watering and inspect the new growth weekly for any signs of aphids.

Upright hedge bedstraw: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your upright hedge bedstraw 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

Are aphids harmful?: Yes, they suck the sap from the plant and can stunt its growth. They also leave behind a sticky substance that can attract mold.
Will the leaves uncurl?: If the cause is heat stress, they will usually uncurl once the temperature drops. If the cause is aphids, the leaves might remain slightly distorted even after the pests are removed.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my Galium album leaves curling?