Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Inspect the undersides of new leaves for small clusters of insects.
- Check for a sticky substance called honeydew on the foliage.
- Look for ants moving up and down the trunk.
Likely causes
Aphid infestation
Most likelyHow to tell: You will see small green or black insects clustered on new shoots and sticky residue on the leaves. The new growth may look stunted or distorted.
What to do: Spray the affected areas with a strong stream of water to knock them off. Follow up by applying neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Ant activity
PossibleHow to tell: Ants often patrol the branches to protect aphids for their honeydew. If you see a trail of ants, they are likely farming the pests.
What to do: Eliminate the aphids first, as the ants will lose interest once their food source is gone. You can also place a sticky barrier around the trunk to stop ants from climbing.
When to worry
It is serious if the infestation covers the entire tree and causes significant leaf curling. A few stray bugs are normal and easily managed.
Stopping it coming back
Keep your tree healthy with proper watering and check the new growth weekly for early signs of pests.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your ashoka tree.
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 aphids kill my Ashoka tree?
- A small number of aphids rarely kills a mature tree. However, a heavy infestation can weaken the plant and stunt its growth.
- Can I use dish soap to kill them?
- Yes, a mild solution of water and a few drops of unscented dish soap works well. Just be sure to rinse the leaves after a few hours to prevent burning.
More problems with Ashoka tree
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.