When my leaves begin to curl inwards, folding themselves into scroll-like shapes, it is most often my primary and most desperate way of communicating a need for water. My large, broad leaves have a significant surface area from which moisture evaporates. To conserve every precious drop of water I have left in my tissues, I curl my leaves. This brilliant survival mechanism reduces the amount of surface area exposed to the air, slowing down transpiration (the plant version of sweating). It is a clear sign that my soil has become too dry. If you notice this, feel my soil. If the top inch or two is dry to the touch, please provide a deep, thorough watering until water runs freely from my pot's drainage holes. I will typically perk up and uncurl within a few hours of a good drink.
Paradoxically, the opposite problem can also cause my leaves to curl, though often accompanied by yellowing. If my roots are constantly sitting in waterlogged soil, they cannot breathe. Roots need oxygen as much as they need water. When deprived of air, they begin to rot and die. A root system in decay cannot effectively absorb water or nutrients, no matter how wet the soil is. This creates a situation similar to drought, and I will respond by curling my leaves as if I am thirsty. This is a much more serious condition. If my pot feels heavy and the soil is persistently soggy, you may need to repot me into fresh, well-draining soil and a container with adequate drainage holes, carefully trimming away any soft, brown, or smelly roots first.
I am a tropical plant, native to the humid understories of rainforests. The air in my natural home is moist and warm. The typical indoor environment, especially with air conditioning or heating, is often far too dry for my liking. Low humidity causes moisture to evaporate from my leaves faster than my roots can draw it up. In response, I will curl my leaves to conserve moisture, just as I do when underwatered. You might also see the tips of my leaves turning brown and crispy. To help me, you can mist my leaves regularly, place my pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water (ensuring the pot is not sitting directly in the water), or group me together with other plants to create a more humid microclimate.
I am sensitive to sudden changes in temperature. Both cold drafts from leaky windows, air conditioners, or doors, and excessive heat from radiators, fireplaces, or direct heating vents can cause me significant stress. Cold drafts can damage my cells, while hot, dry air accelerates moisture loss. In either case, my leaves may curl as a protective response. Please ensure I am placed in a spot with a stable, warm temperature, ideally between 65-85°F (18-29°C), and away from any sources of extreme or fluctuating temperatures.
In my natural habitat, I am accustomed to dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy above. Direct, harsh sunlight, particularly the intense afternoon sun, is too strong for me. It can scorch my leaves, causing brown, crispy spots, and also lead to excessive water loss. To protect myself, I will curl my leaves to minimize the surface area exposed to the burning rays. If my leaves are curling and also appear faded or have brown burn marks, please move me to a location with bright, but indirect, light. A north or east-facing window is often ideal.
Although less common than environmental causes, an infestation of sap-sucking pests like aphids, spider mites, or mealybugs can also lead to leaf curling. These tiny creatures pierce my leaves and drain my sap, which is full of nutrients and moisture. This weakens me and disrupts the normal growth of the leaf, potentially causing distortion and curling. If you suspect pests, carefully inspect the undersides of my leaves and the stems. You may see the tiny insects themselves, webbing, or a sticky residue called honeydew. Treating me with an insecticidal soap or neem oil can help resolve this issue.
