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Camu camu · Myrciaria dubia

Why are there bugs on my Camu camu?

Aphids are the most common pests for this plant, often clustering on the tender new growth. They suck the sap and can cause leaves to curl or yellow. Check the undersides of your leaves for these tiny, soft bodied insects.

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

Check these first

  1. Look closely at the undersides of new leaves.
  2. Check for sticky residue on the foliage.
  3. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove any visible pests.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid Infestation

    Most likely

    How to tell: You see small green or black insects clustered on new shoots. You might also notice a sticky residue called honeydew on the leaves.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock the aphids off. Follow up with an application of insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

  2. Low Humidity

    Possible

    How to tell: The plant is stressed and becomes more susceptible to pests. Leaves may look dull or slightly shriveled.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant by using a pebble tray or a humidifier. Keep the plant away from direct air conditioning or heater vents.

When to worry

If the infestation covers the entire plant and the leaves are dropping, it is a serious issue. A few bugs are normal and easily managed with regular cleaning.

Stopping it coming back

Wipe your plant leaves down every few weeks to keep them clean and inspect them regularly for early signs of pests.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your camu camu.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf 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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Questions people ask

Are aphids harmful to my Camu camu?
Yes, they drain the plant of nutrients and can spread viruses. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.
Can I use dish soap to kill aphids?
A very mild solution of water and a drop of unscented dish soap can work, but insecticidal soap is safer for the plant.

More problems with Camu camu

Back to the Camu camu guide

This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.