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Tropical Hibiscus · Hibiscus

How do I get rid of pests on my tropical hibiscus?

Tropical hibiscus are magnets for aphids and whiteflies, especially on new buds and leaf undersides. Check the plant closely if you see sticky residue or tiny flying insects.

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. Look closely at the flower buds for clusters of small insects.
  2. Shake the plant gently to see if any tiny white flies take flight.
  3. Check the leaves for a sticky or shiny coating.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

    How to tell: You see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the flower buds and new growth. 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 every five to seven days until they are gone.

  2. Whitefly

    Possible

    How to tell: Tiny white insects fly up in a cloud when you brush against the plant. You will see them gathered on the undersides of leaves.

    What to do: Use a neem oil spray on the undersides of the leaves once a week. Keep the plant in a well ventilated area to discourage them from returning.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your tropical hibiscus

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 are manageable, but you should act immediately if you see heavy webbing or if the buds are failing to open. Severe infestations can stunt the plant permanently.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your hibiscus healthy with proper light and water, as stressed plants are more attractive to pests. Check the undersides of leaves during your weekly watering routine.

Tropical Hibiscus: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your tropical hibiscus 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 the bugs?
It is better to use a dedicated insecticidal soap. Some dish soaps contain degreasers or additives that can burn the delicate leaves of your hibiscus.
Will these pests spread to my other plants?
Yes, aphids and whiteflies move easily between plants. Isolate your hibiscus until you are sure the infestation is completely cleared.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Tropical Hibiscus

Back to the Tropical Hibiscus 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.