Should I prune the curled leaves off?

Wait a few days after watering to see if they recover. If they remain brown and crispy, you can trim them off to keep the plant tidy.

Is my plant dying if the leaves curl?

Not necessarily, as curling is often just a temporary reaction to stress. With proper water and shade, it should bounce back quickly.

Why are my corn speedwell leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is dry an inch down.
Check the plant during the cool of the morning to see if leaves uncurl.
Look for signs of wilting across the entire plant.

Likely causes

Underwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look wilted and curl inward to conserve moisture. The soil will feel dry and crumbly to the touch.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Ensure you are watering every 3 to 7 days when the top inch of soil is dry.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl during the hottest part of the day, especially if the plant is in direct, scorching sun. The plant usually recovers once the temperature drops in the evening.
What to do: Provide some light afternoon shade if the heat is extreme. Ensure the plant is well hydrated to help it cope with high temperatures.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your corn speedwell

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

If the leaves stay curled even after a thorough watering, the roots may be damaged. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during a very hot afternoon as a natural defense.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and provide protection from the harshest midday sun. Mulching around the base can help keep the soil cool and moist.

Corn speedwell: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your corn speedwell 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 prune the curled leaves off?: Wait a few days after watering to see if they recover. If they remain brown and crispy, you can trim them off to keep the plant tidy.
Is my plant dying if the leaves curl?: Not necessarily, as curling is often just a temporary reaction to stress. With proper water and shade, it should bounce back quickly.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my corn speedwell leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your corn speedwell?