Tiny Green Aphids on Elephant Ears

Appearance

• Green aphids are up to 1/8-inch insects with long antennae and legs. They have soft bodies and narrow, leaf-piercing mouth parts. Green aphids normally attack elephant ears in groups, remaining attached to the leaves and stems even when disturbed.

Spread

• In the warm climates that elephant ears plants love, green aphids spread rapidly. Aphids reproduce in various ways during the year, but in warm weather, adult females bear live young -- up to a dozen each day -- without mating.

Damage

• Small numbers of green aphids seldom damage elephant ears. Damage from large populations ranges from mishappen, curled or yellowing leaves to stunted new growth. Green aphids secrete honeydew. Honeydew attracts sooty mold that can cover leaves, reducing photosynthesis. (Reference 3, Damage, par. 1, sentences 1-2)

Control

• Prune and destroy the affected foliage of elephant ears with a small number of infested leaves. Remove heavier infestations with a strong spray of water; this will also wash off honeydew. A thorough spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil temporarily controls infestations. Read the labels on these products before use to determine whether they harm alocasia plants.