Check these first
- Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects.
- Check if the water tray is empty or dry.
- Feel the soil to ensure it is still wet to the touch.
Likely causes
Aphid Infestation
PossibleHow 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.
Heat Stress
PossibleHow 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.
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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
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
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.

