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Common boneset · Eupatorium perfoliatum

What are these bugs on my Eupatorium perfoliatum?

It is less common for this plant to suffer from pests, as it is generally quite hardy, but aphids can occasionally cluster on the tender new growth. Check the undersides of the leaves and the tips of the stems for small, soft bodied insects.

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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 leaves for tiny moving insects.
  2. Look for sticky residue on the leaves or stems.
  3. Check for fine webbing between the leaf joints.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

    How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustered on new growth or the undersides of leaves. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

  2. Spider Mites

    Possible

    How to tell: Look for fine webbing between the leaves and tiny yellow stippling on the foliage. These pests thrive in dry conditions, which is why keeping the plant moist is vital.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant and wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth. Use a miticide or neem oil if the infestation is severe.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common boneset

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 aphids are usually manageable, but a heavy infestation can stunt the plant's growth. It is normal to see an occasional stray insect outdoors.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with consistent water and good airflow to discourage pests from settling in.

Common boneset: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common boneset 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 household soap to kill the bugs?
Avoid using harsh dish soaps, as they can damage the leaves. Use a dedicated insecticidal soap or a mild, organic soap specifically for plants.
Are these pests harmful to me?
No, aphids and spider mites are harmless to humans. They only feed on the plant's sap.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Common boneset

Back to the Common boneset 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.