Are aphids harmful to my plant?

Yes, they suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth or distorted leaves. They multiply quickly, so treat them as soon as you see them.

Will my leaves uncurl after I fix the problem?

The existing curled leaves will likely remain that way. However, new growth should emerge flat and healthy once the issue is resolved.

Redshank: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny bugs.
Feel the leaf edges for crispiness.
Check the humidity levels in the room.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You see small clusters of green or black insects on the new growth or undersides of leaves. The leaves look distorted and curled.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth or spray them with a gentle stream of water to dislodge the pests. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil once a week for 3 weeks to eliminate the colony. Keep the plant isolated from others until the infestation is gone.
Low Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The leaf edges curl inward and feel crispy to the touch. The plant looks dry even if the soil is damp.
What to do: Mist the leaves with water every morning to increase local humidity. Place a tray of pebbles and water near the pot to create a humid microclimate. Keep the plant away from dry drafts caused by air conditioning or heaters.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your redshank

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

Curling caused by aphids is serious and needs immediate attention to prevent the colony from spreading. Mild curling due to low humidity is usually just a sign the plant needs more moisture in the air.

Stopping it coming back

Check your plant for pests every time you water. Maintain a consistent humidity level by grouping plants together.

Redshank: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your redshank 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 can cause stunted growth or distorted leaves. They multiply quickly, so treat them as soon as you see them.
Will my leaves uncurl after I fix the problem?: The existing curled leaves will likely remain that way. However, new growth should emerge flat and healthy once the issue is resolved.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are the leaves on my Persicaria maculosa curling?