Should I use a heavy pesticide on my yucca?

Avoid heavy pesticides, as they can damage the waxy coating on the leaves. Gentle methods like alcohol wipes or insecticidal soap are much safer.

Are these bugs hurting my plant?

Most pests on a yucca are minor and won't kill the plant. Monitor the situation closely to see if the damage is spreading before deciding on a treatment.

What are these bugs on my Yucca gloriosa? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small bumps or webbing.
Look for tiny insects or moths resting on the flower stalks.
Wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and potential pests.

Likely causes

Yucca moth
Most likely
How to tell: You might notice small moths around the plant or minor damage to the developing fruit or flower buds.
What to do: These moths are actually beneficial pollinators for the plant. You do not need to take action unless the damage to the flowers becomes excessive.
Scale insects
Possible
How to tell: Small, brown, bump like spots appear on the stems or leaves that can be scraped off with a fingernail.
What to do: Wipe the affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Repeat this process every 7 days until the insects are gone.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your spanish dagger

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

Small amounts of insect activity are usually manageable, but you should act if you see the plant losing vigor or if the infestation spreads rapidly.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy by allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings and ensuring it has plenty of airflow.

Spanish dagger: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your spanish dagger 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

Should I use a heavy pesticide on my yucca?: Avoid heavy pesticides, as they can damage the waxy coating on the leaves. Gentle methods like alcohol wipes or insecticidal soap are much safer.
Are these bugs hurting my plant?: Most pests on a yucca are minor and won't kill the plant. Monitor the situation closely to see if the damage is spreading before deciding on a treatment.

Guides to these causes

Scale Insects

What are these bugs on my Yucca gloriosa?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your spanish dagger?