Will curling leaves straighten out?

Usually, no. Once a leaf has curled due to stress or damage, it will likely stay that way, but new growth should be healthy if the cause is addressed.

Are there other pests that cause curling?

Aphids can sometimes cause leaf distortion, though they are less common on marsh violets than slugs. Check for tiny green or black insects on the new growth.

Why are my marsh violet's leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small pests.
Check the soil surface for slug trails.
Measure the temperature in the plant's current location.

Likely causes

Slug Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see irregular holes or chewed edges on the leaves. Slugs often hide under the leaves or in the soil during the day.
What to do: Pick slugs off by hand in the evening or use a shallow dish of beer near the plant to trap them. Keep the area around the plant clear of debris where slugs like to hide.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward and feel dry to the touch. This happens when the plant is exposed to temperatures that are too high for its liking.
What to do: Move the plant to a cooler, more shaded location. Increase the humidity around the plant by misting it or placing it near other moisture loving plants.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your marsh violet

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 curling is accompanied by holes or slime trails, you have a pest problem that needs immediate attention. Minor curling on very old leaves is usually just part of the aging process.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area around your marsh violet clean and free of decaying plant matter to discourage slugs. Maintain a cool, shaded environment to prevent heat stress.

Marsh violet: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your marsh violet 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 curling leaves straighten out?: Usually, no. Once a leaf has curled due to stress or damage, it will likely stay that way, but new growth should be healthy if the cause is addressed.
Are there other pests that cause curling?: Aphids can sometimes cause leaf distortion, though they are less common on marsh violets than slugs. Check for tiny green or black insects on the new growth.

Guides to these causes

Slugs and Snails

Why are my marsh violet's leaves curling?