Check these first
- Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for small insects.
- Inspect the flower buds for sticky residue or distortion.
- Check the soil surface and pot rim for slugs or snails at night.
Likely causes
Aphids
Most likelyHow to tell: You see clusters of tiny green or black insects on new growth and flower buds.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. For heavy infestations, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days.
Slugs and Snails
PossibleHow to tell: Irregular holes in the leaves and slimy trails left on the foliage.
What to do: Hand pick them off in the evening when they are active. You can also place copper tape around the pot or use organic slug bait.
Find out what's wrong with your common agapanthus
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
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
When to worry
Small numbers of pests are manageable, but a heavy infestation can stunt growth and ruin flowers. Treat them as soon as you notice them to prevent spread.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the area around your plant clean of debris and weeds where pests hide. Regularly inspect your plant during the growing season.
Common agapanthus: pests? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common agapanthus 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
- Are aphids harmful to my plant?
- Yes, they suck sap and can cause leaves to curl and flower buds to fail. They also leave behind a sticky substance that can attract mold.
- Do I need to use harsh chemicals?
- No, start with gentle methods like water sprays or insecticidal soap. These are usually enough to control common pests on Agapanthus.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Common agapanthus
Back to the Common agapanthus guide
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.

