Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Look closely at the undersides of the curled leaves.
- Check if the plant is in direct, scorching sunlight.
- Feel the soil to see if the plant is thirsty.
Likely causes
Aphids or Whiteflies
Most likelyHow to tell: You see small clusters of green or black insects on new growth or tiny white flies that scatter when you touch the leaves. The leaves curl as the pests suck the sap.
What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock the pests off. Follow up with an application of insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until the bugs are gone.
Heat stress
PossibleHow to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. The edges of the leaves might feel crispy or dry.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light instead of harsh, direct sun. Ensure the plant is watered thoroughly so the soil stays moist.
Find out what's wrong with your purple bell vine
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 normal for leaves to curl slightly in extreme heat, but they should flatten out at night. You should worry if the curling is permanent and accompanied by sticky residue on the leaves.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the plant clean by wiping leaves occasionally and check for pests every time you water. Provide bright, indirect light to avoid heat stress.
Purple bell vine: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your purple bell vine 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
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Are these bugs harmful?
- Yes, aphids and whiteflies drain the plant of energy and can cause stunted growth. Treat them as soon as you see them to prevent a full infestation.
- Do I need to prune the curled leaves?
- You can prune them if they are severely damaged or unsightly. Otherwise, focus on treating the cause and the plant will recover.
More problems with Purple bell vine
- Why are there bugs on my purple bell vine?
- Why is my purple bell vine drooping?
- Why is my purple bell vine getting so leggy?
- Why is my purple bell vine not flowering?
- Why are my purple bell vine leaves turning yellow?
- Why are my purple bell vine's leaf tips turning brown?
- Why is my purple bell vine dropping leaves?
- How do I fix root rot on my purple bell vine?
Back to the Purple bell vine 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.