Will my leaves uncurl after I water them?

Yes, if the plant was just thirsty, the leaves should flatten out within a few hours of a good drink. Be patient as it recovers.

Can drafts cause curling?

Yes, cold or hot air blowing directly on the plant will cause it to curl. Keep it away from air vents and drafty windows.

Pinstripe Calathea: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is dry and pulling away from the pot.
Feel the leaves to see if they are crisp or soft.
Measure the humidity level in the room.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel dry and crisp to the touch and the soil has pulled away from the edges of the pot. The plant will look wilted and sad.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough soak until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a schedule where you water every 5 to 10 days when the top inch of soil is dry.
Low Humidity
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves curl even when the soil is moist. The edges may also look brown and crispy.
What to do: Place a humidifier nearby or group your plant with others to create a microclimate. You can also place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pinstripe calathea

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 a sign of stress that needs immediate attention. If the leaves stay curled for too long, they may become permanently damaged or brittle.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the humidity above 50 percent and monitor your soil moisture closely. Consistent care prevents the plant from needing to curl its leaves to conserve water.

Pinstripe Calathea: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pinstripe calathea 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 after I water them?: Yes, if the plant was just thirsty, the leaves should flatten out within a few hours of a good drink. Be patient as it recovers.
Can drafts cause curling?: Yes, cold or hot air blowing directly on the plant will cause it to curl. Keep it away from air vents and drafty windows.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Pinstripe Calathea's leaves curling?