Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Examine the new growth for tiny moving insects.
- Check if the plant is sitting in direct, intense sunlight.
- Feel the leaves to see if they are dry and brittle.
Likely causes
Aphids
Most likelyHow to tell: Tiny green or black insects cluster on new growth and cause curling.
What to do: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use a gentle insecticidal soap. Repeat the treatment every 5 days until the pests are gone.
Heat Stress
PossibleHow to tell: Leaves curl inward and look crispy at the edges.
What to do: Move the plant away from direct heat sources or hot windows. Increase humidity by placing it away from vents.
Find out what's wrong with your wood sorrel
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
Curling is serious if you see insects, as they will multiply quickly. If it is just heat, the plant will recover once moved.
Stopping it coming back
Check your plants weekly for pests. Keep the plant in a stable environment with bright indirect light.
Wood sorrel: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wood sorrel 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
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Questions people ask
- How do I get rid of aphids naturally?
- A simple spray of water or a mild soap solution works well. Be sure to check the undersides of the leaves.
- Will the leaves uncurl?
- Severely curled leaves may not flatten out again. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Wood sorrel
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- How do I fix root rot in my oxalis?
- Why is my oxalis growing so tall and leggy?
- Why are my oxalis leaves getting brown tips?
- Why is my oxalis dropping its leaves?
- Why is my Oxalis not blooming?
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.