Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Rub the leaf to see if the white powder comes off.
- Check if the leaves look normal in the early morning.
- Examine the underside of the leaf for hidden pests.
Likely causes
Powdery Mildew
Most likelyHow to tell: Leaves look like they have been dusted with flour or white powder. This causes the leaves to twist, curl, and eventually turn brown.
What to do: Improve air circulation by thinning out the plant. Apply a fungicide or a mix of one tablespoon of baking soda in a gallon of water to treat the leaves.
Heat Stress
PossibleHow to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. They usually recover once the sun goes down.
What to do: Ensure the plant is getting enough water during dry spells. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to keep the roots cool and moist.
When to worry
It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during extreme heat. You should worry if the curling is accompanied by white spots or if the leaves are turning brittle.
Stopping it coming back
Plant roses in a spot with full sun and good airflow to prevent fungal issues from starting.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your orange rose.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Is powdery mildew contagious?
- Yes, it spreads easily through the air. Keep infected plants away from other susceptible species if possible.
- Should I cut off all the curled leaves?
- If the curling is caused by mildew, remove the worst leaves to reduce the spore count. If it is just heat stress, leave them alone as they will recover.
More problems with Orange Rose
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.