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Bougainvillea

What are these bugs on my bougainvillea?

Aphids are the most common pests for bougainvillea, often clustering on the tender new growth. They suck the sap and can cause leaves to curl or look distorted.

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pests on a plant
Photo: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of new leaves.
  2. Look for sticky residue on the foliage.
  3. Check for ants, which often farm aphids.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid Infestation

    Most likely

    How to tell: You see tiny green or black insects clustered on the tips of new shoots. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the affected areas with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil once a week until they are gone.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your bougainvillea

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.

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When to worry

A few aphids are manageable, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant and lead to sooty mold. Treat them as soon as you spot the first cluster.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with proper light and water, as stressed plants are more attractive to pests. Regularly inspect new growth during the spring.

Bougainvillea: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your bougainvillea 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I use dish soap to kill them?
You can use a very mild, non-detergent soap mixed with water, but commercial insecticidal soap is safer for the plant. Avoid using harsh degreasing soaps.
Will these bugs kill my plant?
It is unlikely to kill a mature plant, but it will stunt growth and prevent flowering. It is best to address the issue quickly.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Bougainvillea

Back to the Bougainvillea 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.