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Butterfly Bush · Buddleja davidii

Why are there bugs on my butterfly bush?

Butterfly bushes are magnets for pollinators, but they also attract a few unwanted guests. You will usually see aphids on new growth or fine webbing from spider mites during hot spells. Check your plant closely to see which pest is causing the trouble.

Not sure it's this? Check a photo of your plant for free

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

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small insects.
  2. Look for fine webbing between the stems.
  3. Check if the new growth looks curled or distorted.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

    How to tell: Look for clusters of tiny green or black insects on the undersides of leaves and new stem tips. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the affected areas with a strong stream of water from your hose to knock them off. If the infestation is heavy, apply insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

  2. Spider Mites

    Possible

    How to tell: You will notice tiny yellow dots on the leaves and very fine webbing between stems. These pests thrive when the weather is hot and dry.

    What to do: Increase humidity around the plant by misting it or watering the soil deeply. Use neem oil or horticultural oil to treat the leaves according to the label instructions.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your butterfly bush

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

Small numbers of insects are normal in a garden, but you should act if the plant shows signs of wilting or heavy leaf damage.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your butterfly bush healthy with proper watering and full sun to help it resist infestations.

Butterfly Bush: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your butterfly bush 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

Will these bugs kill my butterfly bush?
Usually not, but they can weaken the plant and make it look unsightly. Early intervention keeps the bush strong.
Can I use chemical pesticides?
Avoid harsh chemicals because they will kill the butterflies and bees you want to attract. Stick to soaps or oils.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Butterfly Bush

Back to the Butterfly Bush 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.