Will my curled leaves straighten out?

Usually, once the stressor is removed, new growth will emerge flat and healthy. The existing curled leaves may stay that way, but they are still doing their job.

Do I need to fertilize to fix this?

No, curling is rarely caused by a lack of nutrients. Focus on water and pest control instead.

Winged primrose-willow: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small insects.
Check if the soil is still damp to the touch.
Observe if the leaves flatten out once the sun goes down.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small green or black insects clustering on the new growth and undersides of leaves. The leaves may look distorted or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Gently spray the plant with a steady stream of water to knock the aphids off. If they persist, use a mild insecticidal soap spray 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. If the plant perks up at night, heat is the culprit.
What to do: Ensure the soil remains constantly moist or keep the pot in a shallow tray of water. If the plant is in a container, move it to a spot that gets afternoon shade.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your winged primrose-willow

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

Worry if the leaves stay curled even when the plant is well watered and free of pests. This could indicate a deeper issue with the root system.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant well hydrated and check the new growth weekly for any signs of aphids.

Winged primrose-willow: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your winged primrose-willow 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

Will my curled leaves straighten out?: Usually, once the stressor is removed, new growth will emerge flat and healthy. The existing curled leaves may stay that way, but they are still doing their job.
Do I need to fertilize to fix this?: No, curling is rarely caused by a lack of nutrients. Focus on water and pest control instead.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my Ludwigia decurrens leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your winged primrose-willow?