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Black henbane · Hyoscyamus niger

What is eating my Black henbane leaves?

If your leaves have tiny holes, you likely have a pest problem. Check the undersides of the leaves and the soil surface for small 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. Check the undersides of the leaves for small insects.
  2. Tap the plant gently to see if anything jumps off.
  3. Look for sticky residue on the leaves.

Likely causes

  1. Flea beetles

    Most likely

    How to tell: These are small, dark beetles that jump when disturbed. They create a shot hole pattern across the leaves.

    What to do: Use a sticky trap near the base of the plant to catch adults. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days. Keep the soil surface clean of debris.

  2. Aphids

    Possible

    How to tell: You might see clusters of tiny green or black insects on new growth. They cause leaves to look distorted or sticky.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Use insecticidal soap once a week until the population drops. Encourage ladybugs in your garden to help control them naturally.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your black henbane

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

If the holes are so numerous that the leaf structure is failing, the plant is under severe stress. A few holes are normal for outdoor plants.

Stopping it coming back

Regularly inspect your plants and keep the surrounding area free of weeds that host these pests.

Black henbane: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your black henbane 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 these beetles harmful to me?
Flea beetles are only interested in your plants. They do not bite humans or pets.
Should I use harsh chemicals?
Avoid harsh pesticides, as they can harm beneficial insects. Stick to neem oil or insecticidal soap for the safest results.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Black henbane

Back to the Black henbane 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.