Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Look closely at the leaf joints.
- Check the undersides of the leaves for bumps.
- Touch the leaves to see if they feel sticky.
Likely causes
Scale
Most likelyHow to tell: You see small, hard, brown bumps on the stems or leaf undersides. They look like tiny shells and do not move.
What to do: Scrape them off gently with a soft toothbrush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. For larger infestations, apply horticultural oil according to the label.
Mealybugs
PossibleHow to tell: You notice white, cottony patches in the leaf axils or along the stems. The leaves may also feel sticky to the touch.
What to do: Wipe the affected areas with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. Repeat this process every 7 days until the white fluff is gone.
When to worry
A few pests are manageable, but if the entire plant is covered or the leaves are wilting, you need to act fast. Severe infestations can weaken the plant significantly.
Stopping it coming back
Inspect your plant every time you water it. Keep the foliage clean and avoid overcrowding to improve airflow.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your nandina.
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.
Questions people ask
- Will these pests kill my plant?
- They can weaken the plant over time by sucking out sap. If left untreated, the plant may lose vigor and become susceptible to other diseases.
- Can I use dish soap to kill them?
- A mild solution of water and a few drops of dish soap can help, but be sure to rinse the leaves afterward. Horticultural oil is usually more effective for scale.
More problems with Nandina
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.