Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for tiny insects.
- Check the soil moisture to ensure the plant is not thirsty.
- Look at the light levels to see if the plant is getting too much direct sun.
Likely causes
Aphid Infestation
Most likelyHow to tell: Small green or black insects cluster on the new growth and the leaves look distorted or curled.
What to do: Gently wash the aphids off with a steady stream of water. You can also use insecticidal soap to treat the infestation on the leaves.
Heat Stress
PossibleHow to tell: Leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day when the plant is in direct sun.
What to do: Provide some afternoon shade if the plant is in full sun. Ensure the plant is well watered during hot spells.
Find out what's wrong with your motherwort
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
If the curling is accompanied by sticky residue or stunted growth, you likely have an aphid problem. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly in response to high heat as a way to conserve water.
Stopping it coming back
Check your plant regularly for pests and keep it in a spot with appropriate light.
Motherwort: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your motherwort 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
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 burning the leaves in the sun.
- Does Motherwort flower?
- Motherwort does flower, producing small pink or purple blooms in the summer. It needs bright light and consistent moisture to bloom well.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Motherwort
- Why are there bugs on my Motherwort?
- Why does my Motherwort have spots on its leaves?
- Why is my Motherwort drooping?
- Why is my Motherwort showing signs of root rot?
- Why is my Motherwort growing tall and leggy?
- Why are my Motherwort's leaves turning yellow?
- Why are my Motherwort leaves getting brown tips?
- Why is my Motherwort losing its leaves?
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.