Will aphids kill my tree?

Usually no, but they can weaken young trees and cause unsightly leaf damage.

Yes, neem oil is effective, but apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the hot sun.

Why are there bugs on my Jacaranda? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of new leaves.
Look for sticky residue on the foliage.
Check for lines of ants traveling up the trunk.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects and sticky honeydew on the leaves.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap every 7 days until they are gone.
Ant activity
Possible
How to tell: Ants often farm aphids for their honeydew, so seeing trails of ants is a major clue.
What to do: Place ant baits around the base of the tree to stop them from protecting the aphids. Once the ants are gone, the aphids are easier to manage.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your jacaranda

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.

When to worry

A few aphids are normal, but a heavy infestation that causes leaf curling or soot buildup requires immediate action.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the tree healthy with proper sun and water to help it resist pests naturally.

Jacaranda: pests? Check yours with a photo

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

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will aphids kill my tree?: Usually no, but they can weaken young trees and cause unsightly leaf damage.
Can I use neem oil?: Yes, neem oil is effective, but apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the hot sun.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my Jacaranda?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your jacaranda?