Can I just wash the plant off?

Washing helps, but scale insects have a hard shell that protects them. You must physically remove them or use an oil based treatment to suffocate them.

Will these pests kill my plant?

A light infestation is usually manageable, but a heavy one will drain the plant of energy and cause leaves to yellow and drop. Catching them early is key.

Giant white bird of paradise: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves and along the stems.
Check for a sticky substance on the leaves or the floor beneath the plant.
Try to gently scrape a bump off to see if it is a pest.

Likely causes

Scale Insects
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, raised, brown or tan bumps that look like little shields. They do not move and often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Gently scrape the bumps off with a fingernail or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Follow up by wiping the entire plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days until they are gone.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your giant white bird of paradise

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.

When to worry

Scale can spread quickly to other plants in your home. Treat the plant as soon as you spot the first bump to keep the infestation from getting out of control.

Stopping it coming back

Wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them clean and dust free. Regularly inspect new plants before placing them near your bird of paradise.

Giant white bird of paradise: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your giant white bird of paradise 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.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I just wash the plant off?: Washing helps, but scale insects have a hard shell that protects them. You must physically remove them or use an oil based treatment to suffocate them.
Will these pests kill my plant?: A light infestation is usually manageable, but a heavy one will drain the plant of energy and cause leaves to yellow and drop. Catching them early is key.

Guides to these causes

Scale Insects

What are these brown bumps on my Giant white bird of paradise?