Are these beetles harmful to me?

No, they are harmless to humans and pets. They only have an appetite for your lilies.

Do I need to use chemicals?

Not usually. Handpicking is very effective if you stay consistent with your checks.

What are these red bugs on my lily? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of leaves for eggs or larvae.
Check for holes in the leaves or missing foliage.
Examine the flower buds for sticky residue.

Likely causes

Lily Leaf Beetle
Most likely
How to tell: You will see striking, bright red beetles on the stems or leaves. They often leave behind dark, slimy excrement and large holes in the foliage.
What to do: Handpick the beetles and their larvae off the plant daily and drop them into a bucket of soapy water. If the infestation is severe, apply a neem oil spray to the leaves.
Aphids
Possible
How to tell: Tiny green or black insects cluster on the new growth or flower buds. They cause leaves to look distorted or sticky.
What to do: Wash the aphids off with a strong stream of water from your hose. For persistent colonies, use an insecticidal soap spray once a week.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your lily

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

You should worry as soon as you see a single red beetle, as they multiply and feed aggressively. If the plant is completely defoliated, it may struggle to store energy for next year.

Stopping it coming back

Check your lilies every few days during the spring and early summer. Early detection is the best way to prevent a full scale invasion.

Lily: pests? Check yours with a photo

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

Are these beetles harmful to me?: No, they are harmless to humans and pets. They only have an appetite for your lilies.
Do I need to use chemicals?: Not usually. Handpicking is very effective if you stay consistent with your checks.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

What are these red bugs on my lily?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your lily?