Pocket Botanist
_on_a_leaf,_Lisbon,_Portugal_(approx._GPS_location)_julesvernex2.jpg){kind=link}
Check these first
- Examine the undersides of the leaves carefully.
- Look for sticky residue on the foliage.
- Check for small insects on the flower buds.
Likely causes
Aphids
Most likelyHow to tell: Small green or black insects cluster on new growth and flower buds. You might see a sticky substance on the leaves called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock them off. For persistent cases, use insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the label instructions.
Leaf miners
PossibleHow to tell: You will see winding, white trails or tunnels inside the leaf tissue. These are caused by larvae feeding between the leaf layers.
What to do: Pick off and destroy the affected leaves to stop the life cycle. Keep the area around the plant clean of debris to discourage future infestations.
Find out what's wrong with your european columbine
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 usually manageable. Worry if the infestation covers the entire plant or if the leaves start to curl and deform significantly.
Stopping it coming back
Keep your plant healthy with proper light and water, and inspect it regularly so you can catch any pests early before they multiply.
European columbine: pests? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european columbine 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 these pests harmful to my other plants?
- Yes, aphids can easily spread to nearby plants. It is best to isolate your columbine until you are sure the pests are gone.
- Can I use home remedies for pests?
- A simple mix of water and a drop of mild dish soap can work for aphids. Always test a small area of the plant first to ensure it does not cause leaf burn.
Guides to these causes
More problems with European columbine
- Why are there spots on my Aquilegia vulgaris leaves?
- Why are my European columbine leaves turning yellow?
- Why do my European columbine leaves have brown tips?
- Why is my Aquilegia vulgaris drooping?
- Why is my Aquilegia vulgaris not blooming?
- Why is my columbine showing signs of root rot?
- Why is my columbine growing tall and leggy?
- Why are my columbine leaves curling?
Back to the European columbine 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.