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Doronicum · Doronicum orientale

What are these bugs on my Leopard's bane?

Aphids are common pests that cluster on the tender new growth of Leopard's bane. They suck the sap and can weaken the plant if left unchecked.

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

Check these first

  1. Examine the undersides of new leaves.
  2. Look for sticky residue on the foliage.
  3. Check the flower buds for clusters of insects.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid infestation

    Most likely

    How to tell: Small green or black insects are visible on the undersides of leaves or on flower stems.

    What to do: Spray the aphids off with a strong stream of water. For larger infestations, use insecticidal soap according to the label instructions.

  2. Environmental stress

    Possible

    How to tell: The plant is weak and attracts pests more easily.

    What to do: Ensure the plant is getting the right amount of light and water to keep it strong. Healthy plants are better at resisting pest attacks.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your doronicum

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

Treat as soon as you see them to prevent them from spreading to other plants. A few aphids are rarely fatal but can stunt growth.

Stopping it coming back

Check your plants weekly for early signs of pests. Keep the plant healthy with proper light and moisture.

Doronicum: pests? Check yours with a photo

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

Do I need harsh chemicals?
No, a simple spray of water or mild insecticidal soap is usually enough.
Will aphids kill my plant?
They rarely kill a healthy plant, but they can cause distorted growth and weaken the bloom.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Doronicum

Back to the Doronicum 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.