Healthy oleander leaves are usually a beautiful, deep green and have a distinct long, oval shape. But if you notice those leaves starting to curl inward from the edges, it’s usually a red flag that your plant isn’t feeling its best. Let’s dive into what might be going on and how you can fix it.
What Healthy Oleander Leaves Look Like
In a perfect world, your oleander should be showing off vibrant, leathery green foliage. If those leaves start curling up, your plant is trying to tell you that something is off. It’s basically a distress signal you shouldn’t ignore!
Common Culprits for Curling Leaves
There are a few different reasons why your oleander might be having a “bad hair day.” Most of the time, it boils down to one of two things:
- You’ve got some uninvited guests (pests).
- The plant is unhappy with its environment or isn’t getting enough water.
Dealing with Pests
If you see green leaves curling, your first move should be to check for pests. Aphids and spider mites are the usual suspects here. They love to hang out on the undersides of the leaves, sucking out the sap. This literally drains the life out of the foliage, causing it to curl up.
Take a close look at the bottom of the leaves. If you spot any critters, you’ll want to treat the plant as soon as possible with an appropriate organic spray or insecticidal soap to get things back under control.
Location, Location, Location
More often than not, curling leaves are actually a sign that your oleander is in the wrong spot. These plants are sun-worshippers! They need a warm, bright location that’s protected from chilly drafts. If your oleander gets too cold, it won’t just stop blooming—its leaves will start to curl, too.
Believe it or not, if temperatures dip below 65°F (18°C), the roots can get “chilly feet.” When the roots get too cold, they struggle to transport water and nutrients up to the rest of the plant. This lack of moisture is what causes the leaves to shrivel and roll. To keep your plant happy, make sure it’s in a cozy, sunny spot away from the wind, and always keep it well-watered!
