Will my leaves uncurl once the pests are gone?

The existing leaves that are severely curled may not fully flatten out again. However, the new growth should emerge healthy and flat once the infestation is cleared.

Does Wingstem need more water when it is hot?

Yes, Wingstem prefers evenly moist soil. During high heat, check the soil every 3 days to ensure it has not dried out too much.

Why are my Wingstem's leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects.
Touch the soil to see if it feels dry or parched.
Observe if the curling happens only during the hottest part of the day.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustered on the undersides of leaves or near the new growth. The leaves often look distorted or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock the bugs off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap 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 water. If they perk back up in the evening, the plant is just reacting to the temperature.
What to do: Provide a bit of afternoon shade if the plant is in a very hot spot. 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 wingstem

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 when the soil is moist and the air is cool. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during extreme heat waves as a defense mechanism.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant well watered and monitor for pests early in the season to stop them from spreading.

Wingstem: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wingstem 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.

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Questions people ask

Will my leaves uncurl once the pests are gone?: The existing leaves that are severely curled may not fully flatten out again. However, the new growth should emerge healthy and flat once the infestation is cleared.
Does Wingstem need more water when it is hot?: Yes, Wingstem prefers evenly moist soil. During high heat, check the soil every 3 days to ensure it has not dried out too much.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my Wingstem's leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your wingstem?