Are these pests harmful to the tree?

Yes, heavy infestations can weaken the tree over time. It is best to manage them early.

Should I use chemical pesticides?

Try physical removal or mild soaps first. Harsh chemicals can harm beneficial insects in your garden.

What are the bugs on my Tree of heaven? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the undersides of the leaves for small insects.
Check the bark for sticky residue or egg masses.
Look for ants, which often follow honeydew producing pests.

Likely causes

Spotted Lanternfly
Most likely
How to tell: You see small, colorful nymphs or winged adults congregating on the bark and leaves. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Scrape egg masses off the bark during winter. Use a strong stream of water to wash off nymphs or apply an insecticidal soap if the infestation is heavy.
Scale Insects
Possible
How to tell: Small, bump like growths appear on the stems or leaf undersides. They look like tiny brown or tan shells.
What to do: Gently scrape them off with a soft brush. For larger infestations, apply neem oil or horticultural oil during the dormant season.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your tree of heaven

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.

When to worry

Worry if you see significant branch dieback or heavy sooty mold growth. A few bugs are usually manageable.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the tree healthy and monitor the bark regularly for new egg masses.

Tree of heaven: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your tree of heaven 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.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Are these pests harmful to the tree?: Yes, heavy infestations can weaken the tree over time. It is best to manage them early.
Should I use chemical pesticides?: Try physical removal or mild soaps first. Harsh chemicals can harm beneficial insects in your garden.

Guides to these causes

Scale Insects

What are the bugs on my Tree of heaven?