Can I just prune off the curled leaves?

You can remove damaged leaves to improve the look, but it will not stop the thrips. You must treat the whole plant to eliminate the pest population.

Will my privet die from thrips?

Usually no, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant significantly. Treat it early to keep your hedge looking full and green.

Why are my European privet leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of curled leaves for tiny insects.
Check the soil moisture level with your finger.
Look for silvery discoloration on the leaf surface.

Likely causes

Privet thrips
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny, slender insects and leaves that look distorted or curled. The foliage might also show silvery streaks or brown patches.
What to do: Spray the foliage thoroughly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat the application every 7 days for 3 weeks to catch new hatches.
Water stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward when the plant is trying to conserve moisture during a dry spell. The soil will feel very dry and crumbly to the touch.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until the soil is moist 6 inches down. Maintain a regular schedule of watering every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european privet

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 curling is widespread and the plant is losing vigor, you need to act quickly to stop the infestation. A few curled leaves at the tips are usually just a minor annoyance.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your privet healthy with consistent watering and good airflow to discourage pest buildup.

European privet: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european privet 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

Can I just prune off the curled leaves?: You can remove damaged leaves to improve the look, but it will not stop the thrips. You must treat the whole plant to eliminate the pest population.
Will my privet die from thrips?: Usually no, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant significantly. Treat it early to keep your hedge looking full and green.

Why are my European privet leaves curling?