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Texas bluebonnet · Lupinus texensis

Why are there bugs on my Texas bluebonnet?

Aphids love the tender new growth of bluebonnets. These tiny pests suck the sap and can cause the leaves to curl or look stunted.

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pests on a plant
Photo: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Look closely at the undersides of the leaves.
  2. Check the tips of new growth for clusters of tiny insects.
  3. Look for sticky residue on the leaves.

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 the flower buds.

    What to do: Spray the aphids off with a sharp stream of water from your hose. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil directly to the affected areas.

  2. Ant activity

    Possible

    How to tell: You notice ants crawling up and down the stems of your plants.

    What to do: Ants often protect aphids to harvest their honeydew. Treat the aphids first, and the ants will usually move on.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your texas bluebonnet

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 normal, but if they cover the entire plant and cause significant curling, you need to act.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plants healthy with proper sun and water to help them resist pest attacks.

Texas bluebonnet: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your texas bluebonnet 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

Will aphids kill my bluebonnet?
They can weaken the plant and stunt its growth if left unchecked. It is best to wash them off as soon as you see them.
Are aphids harmful to me?
No, aphids are harmless to humans and pets. They only care about the sap in your plants.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Texas bluebonnet

Back to the Texas bluebonnet 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.