Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small insects.
- Touch the soil to see if it has dried out completely.
- Check if the plant is sitting in a drafty or hot spot.
Likely causes
Aphid Infestation
Most likelyHow to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustered on the new growth or the undersides of leaves. The leaves may look distorted or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Spray the plant down with a steady stream of water to knock the bugs off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil once a week until they are gone.
Inconsistent Watering
PossibleHow to tell: The soil feels dry to the touch and the leaves look shriveled or curled inward. Gypsywort loves moisture and will react quickly if the soil dries out too much.
What to do: Establish a routine where you check the soil every 1 to 2 days. Keep the soil consistently damp, but not waterlogged, to prevent the leaves from curling again.
Find out what's wrong with your gypsywort
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
You should worry if the curling is accompanied by yellowing or stunted growth. It is normal for the very oldest leaves at the base to curl slightly as they age and die back.
Stopping it coming back
Keep your Gypsywort in a consistently moist environment and check for pests every time you water to catch them early.
Gypsywort: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your gypsywort 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
- Will my leaves uncurl once the pests are gone?
- Usually, the damaged leaves will remain curled or distorted. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy and free of pests.
- Does Gypsywort flower?
- Yes, Gypsywort produces small, pale pink or white flowers in the summer. It needs consistent moisture and bright, indirect light to bloom well.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Gypsywort
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.