Should I water more if the leaves curl?

Only if the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is just as harmful as drought.

Will the leaves uncurl?

If the cause is heat stress, they will often uncurl once the temperature drops. If the damage is from pests, those specific leaves may remain curled.

Why are my Heuchera leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture level.
Observe if the curling happens only during the heat of the day.
Inspect the roots for signs of larvae if the plant is wilting.

Likely causes

Heat Stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. The plant usually recovers once the temperature drops in the evening.
What to do: Provide afternoon shade to protect the plant from intense heat. Ensure you are watering when the top inch of soil feels dry to keep the roots cool.
Vine Weevil Larvae
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl and the plant appears to wilt or collapse even when the soil is moist. You may see small white larvae in the soil if you dig around the roots.
What to do: If you find larvae, you may need to treat the soil with a biological control like nematodes. In severe cases, it is best to remove and dispose of the infested plant to prevent spread.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your coral bells

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

Temporary curling during a hot afternoon is normal. If the leaves stay curled or the plant begins to collapse, it is a serious sign of root damage.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Mulching around the base can help keep roots cool and prevent heat stress.

Coral Bells: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your coral bells 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

Should I water more if the leaves curl?: Only if the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is just as harmful as drought.
Will the leaves uncurl?: If the cause is heat stress, they will often uncurl once the temperature drops. If the damage is from pests, those specific leaves may remain curled.

Guides to these causes

Vine Weevil

Why are my Heuchera leaves curling?