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kidneyleaf buttercup · Ranunculus abortivus

What are the bugs on my kidneyleaf buttercup?

It is less common for this plant to suffer from major pest infestations, but it can occasionally attract aphids or mites. Check the undersides of the leaves first to see if you spot any tiny insects.

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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 for fine webbing on the stems.
  3. Wash the plant with a gentle spray of water.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

    How to tell: You see small clusters of green or black insects on the stems and undersides of leaves.

    What to do: Wash the leaves gently with a stream of water. You can also use insecticidal soap once a week until the pests are gone.

  2. Spider Mites

    Possible

    How to tell: Fine webbing appears between the leaves and the foliage looks stippled or pale.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around the plant. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your kidneyleaf buttercup

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

Worry if the leaves start curling or turning yellow due to heavy feeding. It is normal to see an occasional stray insect that does not cause damage.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with proper water and check the leaves regularly for early signs of pests.

Kidneyleaf buttercup: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your kidneyleaf buttercup 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

Can I use neem oil?
Yes, neem oil is effective for most pests on this plant. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.
Will pests kill my plant?
Only if the infestation is severe and left untreated for a long time. Early detection is the best way to keep your plant safe.

Guides to these causes

More problems with kidneyleaf buttercup

Back to the kidneyleaf buttercup 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.