Skip to content
Pocket Botanist
Get the app

Spanish Shawl · Heterocentron elegans

Why are my Spanish Shawl leaves curling?

It is less common for this plant to have curling leaves unless it is dealing with a pest infestation or extreme thirst. Check the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects first.

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. Examine the undersides of the leaves for aphids.
  2. Feel the soil to see if it is bone dry.
  3. Check the humidity levels in the room.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

    How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustering on the new growth or undersides of leaves. The leaves may look distorted or curled as the pests feed.

    What to do: Gently wash the leaves with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. For a larger infestation, use an insecticidal soap spray once a week until the pests are gone.

  2. Underwatering

    Possible

    How to tell: The leaves feel thin and dry, and the edges begin to curl inward. The soil will feel completely 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. Ensure you are watering every 3 to 7 days depending on how quickly the top inch of soil dries out.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your spanish shawl

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

Minor curling on very old leaves is normal as they age. If the new growth is curling, it is a sign that you need to take action immediately.

Stopping it coming back

Inspect your plant for pests every time you water and keep the soil moisture consistent to prevent stress.

Spanish Shawl: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your spanish shawl 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

Can I use neem oil for aphids?
Yes, neem oil is effective against aphids. Apply it in the evening to avoid leaf burn from direct light.
Will the leaves uncurl?
Once the pests are removed or the plant is properly hydrated, the new leaves will grow in straight. The old curled leaves may stay that way.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Spanish Shawl

Back to the Spanish Shawl 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.