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Brooklime · Veronica beccabunga

Why are my Brooklime leaves curling?

Curling leaves are less common for Brooklime, which usually happens when aphids are feeding on the tender new growth. Check the undersides of your leaves for tiny insects first.

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curling leaves on a plant
Photo: Freshclover, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects.
  2. Check if the water tray is empty or dry.
  3. Feel the soil to ensure it is still wet to the touch.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid Infestation

    Possible

    How to tell: You will see small clusters of green or black insects on the stems or undersides of leaves. The leaves may look distorted or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.

    What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock the bugs off. If they persist, use an insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.

  2. Heat Stress

    Possible

    How to tell: The leaves curl inward when the plant gets too hot or dries out too quickly. This often happens if the water level in your tray drops too low during a hot day.

    What to do: Ensure the pot is sitting in at least 1 to 2 inches of water at all times. Move the plant to a spot with partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your brooklime

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.

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When to worry

Worry if the curling is accompanied by yellowing or stunted growth. It is normal for older leaves to look slightly uneven as they age.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your Brooklime in a consistently wet environment and check for pests every time you refill the water tray.

Brooklime: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your brooklime 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 aphids are gone?
Usually, the damaged leaves will remain curled, but the new growth will emerge healthy and flat. You can trim off the worst looking leaves to improve the appearance.
Can I use neem oil on my Brooklime?
Yes, you can use neem oil, but apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun. Be careful not to let the oil run off into the water tray if you have fish or other aquatic life nearby.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Brooklime

Back to the Brooklime guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.