Do I need to mist the leaves?

No, misting is not necessary for this plant. It prefers dry, sunny conditions.

Will the leaves uncurl?

Yes, once the plant is moved to a better spot or the temperature cools down, the leaves should return to their normal shape.

Prostrate knotweed: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Observe the plant during the hottest part of the day.
Measure how many hours of direct sun the plant gets.
Check for signs of pests like aphids that might cause leaf distortion.

Likely causes

Heat Stress
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. The edges may feel crisp or dry to the touch.
What to do: Provide a little bit of afternoon shade if temperatures are consistently above 90 degrees. Water the plant deeply in the early morning to help it handle the heat.
Insufficient Light
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks leggy and the leaves curl as they reach for more light. Growth will be sparse and slow.
What to do: Move the plant to a location that receives full, direct sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. This plant thrives in bright, open spaces.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your prostrate knotweed

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 is usually a temporary reaction to environmental stress rather than a sign of death. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly if the plant is adjusting to a new, sunnier spot.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in a spot with plenty of direct sun and consistent airflow to prevent stress.

Prostrate knotweed: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your prostrate knotweed 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

Do I need to mist the leaves?: No, misting is not necessary for this plant. It prefers dry, sunny conditions.
Will the leaves uncurl?: Yes, once the plant is moved to a better spot or the temperature cools down, the leaves should return to their normal shape.

Why are my prostrate knotweed leaves curling?