Pocket Botanist
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Check these first
- Examine the undersides of the leaves with a magnifying glass.
- Look for fine webbing between the stems.
- Check for sticky residue on the leaves or the surface below the plant.
Likely causes
Spider mites
Most likelyHow to tell: You see fine webbing between the leaves or stems. The leaves may look stippled or pale.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the webs. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil once a week for 3 weeks.
Aphids
PossibleHow to tell: Tiny green or black insects cluster on the new growth or flower buds. They leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Wash the aphids off with a gentle stream of water. If they persist, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or a mild dish soap solution.
Find out what's wrong with your rosary pea
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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
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When to worry
Small numbers of pests can be managed easily. Worry if the infestation is heavy and the plant is losing vigor or showing signs of stunted growth.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the plant healthy with proper light and water, and wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them dust free.
Rosary pea: pests? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your rosary pea 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I use household soap to kill pests?
- Use a mild, fragrance free dish soap diluted in water. Avoid harsh detergents that might damage the leaves.
- Should I isolate my plant?
- Yes, move the affected plant away from your other houseplants immediately to prevent the pests from spreading.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Rosary pea
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.