Calathea Leaves Curling Inward

If you’ve noticed your calathea leaves curling inward, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common signs that your prayer plant needs a little extra attention. These stunning plants are famous for their expressive foliage, and leaf curling is their way of telling you something is off in their environment. Don’t worry, though—it’s usually a fixable issue. Let’s figure out what your plant is trying to say and how you can help it thrive again.

When calathea leaves curl, they are primarily trying to conserve moisture. It’s a defensive reaction. The plant is reducing its surface area to minimize water loss. Think of it like your plant is holding its breath. The key to fixing the problem is identifying which specific factor is causing this stress response. The most common culprits are related to water, humidity, light, and temperature.

Top Causes and How to Fix Them

Here are the main reasons for curling leaves, listed from most to least common. Start by checking the first item on this list—it’s often the simple answer.

1. Underwatering or Low Humidity

This is the number one cause. Calatheas are tropical plants that crave consistently moist (not soggy) soil and humid air. When either is lacking, leaves curl.

Check the Soil: Stick your finger an inch into the soil. Is it dry? Then it’s time to water.
Water Thoroughly: Water until it runs out the drainage holes, ensuring the entire root ball gets moisture. Let the pot drain completely.
Boost Humidity: Group plants together, use a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby. Misting offers a very temporary boost and isn’t a long-term solution.

2. Overwatering and Root Rot

Paradoxically, too much water can also cause curling, often accompanied by yellowing leaves. Soggy soil suffocates roots, preventing them from absorbing water or nutrients.

Feel the Soil: If it’s constantly wet or smells musty, you may be overwatering.
Inspect the Roots: Gently remove the plant from its pot. Healthy roots are firm and white. Rotten roots are mushy, brown, or black.
Take Action: Trim away all rotten roots with sterile scissors. Repot into fresh, well-draining potting mix and a clean pot with drainage holes.

3. Too Much Direct Sunlight

Calatheas grow on the forest floor in dappled light. Direct sun will scorch their leaves, causing them to curl, fade, or develop brown crispy patches.

Move It: Relocate your plant to a spot with bright, indirect light. A north or east-facing window is ideal, or a few feet back from a south or west window.
Filter the Light: Use a sheer curtain to diffuse strong sunlight.

4. Temperature Stress or Drafts

These plants prefer steady, warm temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C). Cold drafts from windows, doors, or air conditioning vents, as well as hot air from heaters, can cause leaves to curl.

Find a Stable Spot: Keep your calathea away from frequently opened windows, exterior doors, and HVAC vents.
Check Nighttime Temps: Ensure the temperature doesn’t drop too low at night.

5. Water Quality and Fertilizer Issues

Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals in tap water, like fluoride and chlorine, which can build up in the soil and cause leaf tip burn and curling. Over-fertilizing also causes chemical burn.

Switch Your Water: Use distilled water, rainwater, or filtered water. At the very least, let tap water sit out overnight so some chemicals can evaporate.
Flush the Soil: Every few months, water thoroughly until water runs freely from the bottom to help rinse out mineral buildup.
Fertilize Sparingly: Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer only during the growing season (spring and summer), and never more than once a month.

A Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Follow these steps in order to diagnose and remedy your curling calathea.

Touch the Soil. Is it bone dry or soggy wet? This tells you if your first issue is water.
Check the Light. Is the sun shining directly on the leaves, especially during midday? Observe the plant’s location for a few hours.
Feel for Drafts. Hold your hand near the plant’s location. Do you feel a cool breeze from a window or a blast of hot air?
Assess Humidity. Is the air in your home generally dry? This is very common in winter with heating systems.
Consider Your Water. Have you been using tap water? Do you see white crust on the soil surface or pot edges?
Inspect for Pests. Look closely under the leaves and along stems for signs of spider mites, thrips, or mealybugs. Pests can cause stress and curling.

Prevention: Keeping Your Calathea Happy

The best cure is always prevention. Once you correct the problem, these simple habits will keep your calathea’s leaves flat and beautiful.

Consistent Watering: Establish a routine. Check the soil weekly and water when the top inch feels dry.
Humidity is Key: Make a humidifier your plant’s best friend, especially if you have multiple tropical plants.
Right Light, Right Place: Choose its permanent home carefully—a spot with stable, indirect light and no drafts.
Seasonal Adjustments: Water less in winter when growth slows, and be vigilant about dry air from heating.
Clean the Leaves: Gently wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, which helps the plant breathe and photosynthesize efficiently.

FAQ: Common Calathea Questions

Q: Will curled leaves uncurl after fixing the problem?
A: Yes, if the cause is addressed quickly, existing leaves can slowly uncurl. However, severely damaged or crispy leaves may not fully recover. New growth will come in healthy if conditions are corrected.

Q: How often should I water my calathea?
A: There’s no universal schedule. It depends on your home’s light, temperature, and humidity. Always use the finger test—water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Q: Why are the tips of my calathea leaves turning brown?
A: Brown tips are usually a sign of low humidity or chemicals in your water. Increasing humidity and switching to distilled or filtered water should help prevent further browning.

Q: Is leaf curling always a bad sign?
A: Calatheas are “prayer plants” and move their leaves naturally—they raise them upward at night (nyctinasty). This nighttime curling is normal and healthy. Problem curling happens during the day and is often more severe, with leaves curling inward into tight tubes.

Q: Can I use leaf shine products on my calathea?
A: It’s not recommended. These products can clog the plant’s pores. For shiny leaves, just keep them clean with a soft, damp cloth. Their natural sheen is more beautiful anyway.

Remember, calathea leaves curling inward is a clear signal, not a death sentence. By observing your plant and methodically checking its care conditions, you can pinpoint the issue. Start with the basics—water and humidity—and you’ll likely find the answer. With a few simple adjustments, you’ll see those elegant leaves relax and flatten out, rewarding you with the vibrant, patterned foliage that makes these plants so special. Paying attention to these details is what makes a plant parent successful.