Pest identification
What's eating my golden angel's trumpet?
Hornworm caterpillars
Signs: Wholesale defoliation of branches; large frass pellets found beneath plant; bare stems remaining
Control: Hand-pick nightly; apply Bt spray to all leaf surfaces; repeat after rain; use spinosad for heavy loads
Aphids
Signs: Colonies on young shoots and flower buds; leaves curl downward; sticky honeydew present
Control: Knock off with a strong water stream; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days
Whiteflies
Signs: Underside of leaves coated with tiny white insects; leaves yellow and drop prematurely
Control: Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap spray in the morning; pyrethrin for persistent infestations
Keep golden angel's trumpet pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Golden Angel's Trumpet pests — FAQ
What is eating my golden angel's trumpet?
Golden Angel's Trumpet (Brugmansia aurea) has large soft leaves irresistible to caterpillars and whiteflies. Hornworm caterpillars are the primary threat and can defoliate a mature shrub in days. Aphids attack tender new growth throughout the season, and spider mites peak in dry heat. Deer may graze on plants in unfenced gardens.
How do I get rid of hornworm caterpillars on golden angel's trumpet?
Wholesale defoliation of branches; large frass pellets found beneath plant; bare stems remaining Hand-pick nightly; apply Bt spray to all leaf surfaces; repeat after rain; use spinosad for heavy loads
How do I get rid of aphids on golden angel's trumpet?
Colonies on young shoots and flower buds; leaves curl downward; sticky honeydew present Knock off with a strong water stream; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days
How do I get rid of whiteflies on golden angel's trumpet?
Underside of leaves coated with tiny white insects; leaves yellow and drop prematurely Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap spray in the morning; pyrethrin for persistent infestations