Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Look closely at the underside of a curled leaf for tiny insects.
- Check if the soil is dry to the touch.
- See if there is a sticky substance on the leaves below the curled ones.
Likely causes
Aphid Infestation
Most likelyHow to tell: You will see small green or black insects on the new growth. The leaves will look twisted, curled, or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water from your hose to knock the aphids off. If the infestation is heavy, use an insecticidal soap spray every 5 to 7 days. Encourage ladybugs in your garden as they are natural predators.
Water Stress
PossibleHow to tell: The leaves curl inward and feel dry or brittle. This happens when the tree cannot get enough water to its canopy during a dry spell.
What to do: Check the soil moisture 2 to 3 inches deep. If it is dry, water the tree deeply every 7 to 14 days. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to help hold moisture in the soil.
Find out what's wrong with your european aspen
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
It is a concern if the curling is widespread and the tree looks stunted. Minor curling on a few leaves is common and rarely causes lasting damage.
Stopping it coming back
Monitor your tree for pests in the spring and keep it well watered during dry periods.
European aspen: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european aspen 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
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Questions people ask
- What is the sticky stuff on my leaves?
- That is honeydew, a sugary waste product left behind by aphids. It can sometimes attract ants or lead to sooty mold.
- Can I just leave the aphids alone?
- If there are only a few, your tree can handle it. If they are causing major curling, it is best to wash them off.
Guides to these causes
More problems with European aspen
- Why does my European aspen have orange spots on its leaves?
- Why are there bugs on my European aspen?
- Why is my European aspen dropping its leaves early?
- Why are my European aspen leaves turning yellow?
- Why are my European aspen's leaf tips turning brown?
- Why is my European aspen drooping?
- Why does my European aspen have root rot?
Back to the European aspen guide
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.