Is my plant dying if the leaves curl in the sun?

No, it is just protecting itself from water loss. It is a normal response to high heat.

Should I mist the leaves to help?

No, misting does not help the plant hydrate. Focus on watering the soil at the base instead.

Why are my Fragrant sumac leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the leaves uncurl at night.
Feel if the soil is bone dry.
Observe if the curling happens only during the hottest hours.

Likely causes

Heat stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. They usually flatten out again once the sun goes down or temperatures drop.
What to do: Provide a deep watering to ensure the roots are hydrated. If the plant is in a very harsh spot, consider adding a layer of mulch to keep the roots cool.
Drought stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look curled and dry, and the edges may turn brown. This happens when the plant cannot pull enough water from the soil to support its foliage.
What to do: Water the plant deeply at the base, providing enough to soak the soil 6 to 10 inches down. Apply a 2 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your fragrant sumac

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

Worry if the leaves stay curled even at night or if they begin to turn crispy and brown. Temporary curling during a heatwave is a normal defensive reaction.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent layer of mulch to regulate soil temperature and moisture. Water deeply during the first year to help the plant build a strong, deep root system.

Fragrant sumac: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your fragrant sumac 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

Is my plant dying if the leaves curl in the sun?: No, it is just protecting itself from water loss. It is a normal response to high heat.
Should I mist the leaves to help?: No, misting does not help the plant hydrate. Focus on watering the soil at the base instead.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Fragrant sumac leaves curling?