Are aphids harmful to my plant?

Yes, they suck the sap from the plant and cause the leaves to curl and yellow. They can also spread viruses.

Does Virginia pepperweed need full sun?

Yes, it loves full sun. Just make sure it has enough water to keep up with the evaporation.

Virginia pepperweed: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for aphids.
Check if the soil is dry and the plant needs a drink.
Observe if the curling happens only during the hottest part of the day.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustering on the new growth and flower stalks. The leaves will look distorted or curled as the pests feed.
What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock the aphids off. For a heavier infestation, use insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. The plant usually looks better once the sun goes down.
What to do: Provide a bit of afternoon shade if the sun is too intense. Ensure the soil stays consistently moist to help the plant handle the heat.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your virginia pepperweed

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

If the leaves stay curled even at night or if you see a large colony of aphids, you need to act. A slight curl during a very hot afternoon is just the plant protecting itself.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with consistent water and check the leaves weekly for any signs of pests. Catching aphids early makes them much easier to manage.

Virginia pepperweed: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your virginia pepperweed 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

Are aphids harmful to my plant?: Yes, they suck the sap from the plant and cause the leaves to curl and yellow. They can also spread viruses.
Does Virginia pepperweed need full sun?: Yes, it loves full sun. Just make sure it has enough water to keep up with the evaporation.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are the leaves on my Virginia pepperweed curling?