Will my leaves uncurl once I water them?

Yes, if the curling was caused by dehydration, the leaves should perk back up within a few hours of a deep soak.

Can pests cause this?

While rare, aphids can sometimes cause leaf distortion. Check the stems and leaf undersides for tiny clusters of insects.

Why are my Frostweed leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the top inch of the soil.
Check the undersides of the leaves for small pests.
Observe the plant during the cooler morning hours.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look thin and feel crispy or dry to the touch. The soil will be completely dry and pulling away from the sides of the pot.
What to do: Give the plant a deep soak until water runs out of the drainage holes. Ensure the top inch of soil is dry before watering again every 7 to 14 days.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve water. The plant looks wilted even if the soil feels damp.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with partial shade during the afternoon. Provide a light misting or increase humidity if the air is extremely dry.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your frostweed

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 after a thorough watering and a cool night. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during extreme afternoon heat as a protective measure.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and ensure the plant is not exposed to harsh, direct afternoon sun for too many hours.

Frostweed: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

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

Will my leaves uncurl once I water them?: Yes, if the curling was caused by dehydration, the leaves should perk back up within a few hours of a deep soak.
Can pests cause this?: While rare, aphids can sometimes cause leaf distortion. Check the stems and leaf undersides for tiny clusters of insects.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Frostweed leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your frostweed?