About Cleome Pests

Striped Flea Beetle

• These small, jumping beetles will feed on the leaves of your cleome plant, leaving small holes. The adult female lays her eggs in the soil close to the cleome plant, and the larva feed on the roots of the plant, but generally don't cause much damage. The adult beetles emerge from the soil and feed on the leaves of the cleome.

  If feeding is severe, the adults can kill a plant. In warmer climates, the cycle is year-round. In cooler climates, the adults will spend winter in the soil. Laying a thin fabric cover over the soil around your plant will protect them from the adult striped flea beetle. Insecticides are effective against this pest.

Cabbage Butterflies

• Cabbage butterflies are white with dark spots on the wings. According to Illinois Wildflowers, the caterpillars of the cabbage butterfly have been known to feed on the foliage of the cleome plant. The adult female lays her eggs on the underside of the cleome leaf. In about three weeks, the caterpillars emerge to feed on the plant. If you notice leaf damage, inspect the plant for caterpillars and remove them by hand.

Aphid

• The aphid is a small, soft-bodied insect that is usually green and common to the backyard garden. Aphids feed on the fluid from your cleome's leaves and left untreated, can cause your plant to weaken and become susceptible to disease. Aphids also produce a substance called honeydew, which can lead to the growth of a fungus called sooty mold. Ladybugs are the aphid's natural predator. Introducing these insects to your garden will reduce your aphid populations significantly. Insecticidal soaps can also be used in a severe infestation.

Sphingid Moths

• Sphingid moths, such as sphinx moths, have been known to feed on the leaves of the cleome in their larval stage. These moths are nocturnal, visiting the plant at night. The adult female lays her eggs on the plant, which will hatch in several days or weeks, depending on the species of sphingid. If you notice damage to your cleome plant, visually inspect it for caterpillars and remove them by hand.

Whiteflies

• According to Backyard Gardener, whiteflies look like tiny moths that can attack your cleome plant. These insects are not true flies, but belong to the same family as the aphid. Whiteflies pierce the leaf of the cleome and suck the juices from it. This weakens the plant and creates a substance called honeydew, which is attractive to fungi such as sooty mold.

  Because whiteflies pierce the leaf's membrane, they can transmit viruses to the plant. These insects reproduce quickly, with the female laying up to 500 eggs in two months. Using reflective mulch, such as aluminum foil, under plants will discourage whitefly infestation. Sticky cards can also be used to trap these flying insects.