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Gazania · Gazania rigens

What are those tiny bugs on my Treasure flower?

Aphids are common visitors that love the tender new growth of Gazanias. They suck the sap from the plant, which can cause leaves to curl or yellow.

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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 a sticky substance on the leaves called honeydew.
  3. Check for white, powdery spots on the foliage.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid Infestation

    Most likely

    How to tell: You see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the undersides of leaves or near flower buds.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock the bugs off. For larger infestations, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray once a week until they are gone.

  2. Powdery Mildew

    Possible

    How to tell: A white, dusty coating appears on the leaves, often caused by poor air circulation.

    What to do: Improve air flow by spacing plants further apart. Apply a fungicide or a mixture of water and baking soda to the affected leaves to stop the spread.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your gazania

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 stunt growth quickly. Treat them as soon as you spot them to keep the plant healthy.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plants in a well ventilated area and check them regularly for early signs of pests or fungal growth.

Gazania: pests? Check yours with a photo

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

Are aphids harmful to my Gazania?
Yes, they weaken the plant by sucking out sap and can spread viruses. It is best to remove them as soon as you notice them.
How do I get rid of powdery mildew?
Increase air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves when you irrigate. You can also use a mild fungicide to clear up existing spots.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Gazania

Back to the Gazania 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.