Should I cut off the curled leaves?

You can remove them if they are heavily infested or look unsightly, but it is not strictly necessary. Focus on treating the cause so the new growth comes in healthy.

Can I use a chemical pesticide?

It is better to stick with insecticidal soap or neem oil. These are effective against aphids and are much safer for the beneficial pollinators that visit your figwort.

Why are my common figwort leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of curled leaves for small insects.
Touch the soil to see if it feels dry or parched.
Observe if the leaves flatten out once the sun goes down.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the undersides of leaves or near the new growth tips. The leaves often curl or become distorted as the pests feed on the sap.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water from a hose to knock the aphids off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil directly to the affected areas every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. If the plant perks up in the evening, it is likely reacting to high temperatures.
What to do: Provide afternoon shade if your plant is in a spot that gets intense direct sun. Ensure you are watering every 3 to 7 days to keep the soil consistently moist.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common figwort

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 curling is accompanied by yellowing or stunted growth that does not improve with consistent watering. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during extreme heat waves as a temporary defense mechanism.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil evenly moist and check your plants weekly for early signs of pests. A healthy, well hydrated plant is much more resistant to both heat stress and insect attacks.

Common figwort: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common figwort 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

Should I cut off the curled leaves?: You can remove them if they are heavily infested or look unsightly, but it is not strictly necessary. Focus on treating the cause so the new growth comes in healthy.
Can I use a chemical pesticide?: It is better to stick with insecticidal soap or neem oil. These are effective against aphids and are much safer for the beneficial pollinators that visit your figwort.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my common figwort leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your common figwort?