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English Ivy · Hedera helix

Why are my English Ivy leaves curling?

It is less common for this plant to have curling leaves, but it often points to pest activity or extreme temperature fluctuations. Check the undersides of the leaves for tiny pests first.

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

Check these first

  1. Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for webbing.
  2. Check for drafts from windows or heating vents.
  3. Examine the leaves for small, pale spots or stippling.

Likely causes

  1. Spider Mites

    Possible

    How to tell: You see tiny webbing between the leaves and small, pale stippling on the foliage.

    What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth and treat the plant with insecticidal soap. Keep the plant in a more humid environment to discourage mites from returning.

  2. Temperature Stress

    Possible

    How to tell: The leaves curl inward when the plant is placed near a drafty window or a heat vent.

    What to do: Move the plant to a stable location away from direct air currents. Keep the ambient temperature between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Find out what's wrong with your english ivy

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.

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When to worry

Curling is a sign of environmental stress that can lead to leaf drop if ignored. It is normal for very new, unfurling leaves to look slightly curled before they fully expand.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant away from heaters and drafts, and wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them clean and pest free.

Keep your english ivy healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Are spider mites common on English Ivy?
Yes, they thrive in the dry indoor conditions that ivy often experiences. Regular cleaning helps keep them away.
Can low humidity cause curling?
Yes, English Ivy prefers moderate to high humidity. If your home is very dry, the leaves may curl to conserve moisture.

More problems with English Ivy

Back to the English Ivy guide

This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.