Should I mist my bird of paradise to stop the curling?

Misting does not provide enough humidity to help with curling. A humidifier or a pebble tray is a much more effective way to keep the air moist.

Can too much light cause curling?

Yes, if the plant is in harsh, direct sun, the leaves may curl to protect themselves from burning. Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light.

Giant white bird of paradise: curling leaves

Check these first

Check the top two inches of soil for dryness.
Inspect the undersides of the leaves for pests.
Assess the current humidity levels in your room.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels bone dry deep down and the leaves look shriveled or curled inward. You might also notice the edges turning crisp and brown.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough soak until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Ensure you are watering every 7 to 14 days when the top two inches of soil feel dry.
Low Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl during the winter months when indoor heating makes the air very dry. The plant looks otherwise healthy but the foliage lacks its usual flat, wide shape.
What to do: Place a humidifier near the plant to increase the moisture in the air. You can also group it with other plants to create a more humid microclimate.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your giant white bird of paradise

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 soft, mushy stems, which indicates a more serious issue like root rot. It is normal for older leaves to curl slightly as they age and prepare to drop off.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the plant away from direct blasts of air from heaters or air conditioners.