
Curled and Shriveled Leaves on Perennial Hibiscus
I have four perennial hibiscus plants. Two are normal while the other two look curled and shriveled. The leaves look tight and round and disfigured.
Weed killers, mites and several diseases can cause the symptoms you described. Have you or your neighbors used a weed killer or weed and feed product on or near the affected plants? Weed killers (herbicides) can move on wind or water beyond the intended treatment area. If this is the problem, all you can do is wait and see if the plants will grow out of the damage. If this isn't the case, check for mites. These tiny pests suck plant juices causing stunting and distorted growth. Several weekly applications of insecticidal soap or Neem will help reduce the damage. If mites aren't found, check for signs of a virus. The leaves will be discolored in patterns or blotches of light and dark green. Remove virus infected plants immediately to prevent the spread of the disease to nearby healthy hibiscus plants.
Related
Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars
April 26, 2025
Organic Gardening Basics
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
May 3, 2025
Low-Maintenance Gardening
Merton, WI
Register here
May 7, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Vertical Gardening
Register here
May 10, 2025
Ask the Plant Doctor Q&A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
May 11, 2025
Ask the Plant Doctor Q&A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
May 15, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
7 Steps to Managing Water on Your Property
Register here
May 17, 2025
Ask the Plant Doctor Q&A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
May 18, 2025
Ask the Plant Doctor Q&A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 4, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Attracting Hummingbirds
Register here
June 8, 2025
Selecting the Right Hydrangea
for Your Landscape
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 14, 2025
Houseplants 101
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 20, 2025 (event 6/20-6/22)
Pollinator Celebration
Vino in the Valley
Maiden Rock, WI
Register here
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
Learn More