What Kinds of Insects Live in Jasmine Plants?

Spider Mites

• Spider mites affect both indoor and outdoor jasmine plants. Winter jasmine is more susceptible to mite infestation than other outdoor jasmine varieties, but few plants are immune. These small red insects feed on the sap inside the leaves. The jasmine foliage develops a speckled discoloration over the entire leaf surface, with the leaves eventually dropping off in severe infestations. Insecticides formulated specifically for spider mites sometimes provide effective control. Cut back winter jasmine varieties to the ground after they finish flowering to get rid of the insets. Dispose of the removed plant material so the jasmine isn't infested again as it grows back.

Mealybugs

• White waxy or cotton-like clumps on jasmine stems and leaves indicates a mealybug infestation. These insects have a waxy coating and they cluster in large groups, giving the impression of a white growth on the plant. Mealybugs feed on the sap of the plant, eventually weakening the jasmine. Severe infestation can kill plants. Insecticidal soaps provide control for these pests, although multiple treatments are typically necessary. Healthy jasmines are less likely to suffer longterm damage from a mealybug infestation.

Scale Insects

• Black scale insects primarily infest jasmine. These pests resemble a scale-like growth on the plant more than they resemble an insect. The scales rarely cause extensive damage on their own, but they produce a sticky substance as they feed that causes mold and mildew growth on the jasmine. A horticultural oil application in late winter helps control severe infestations. Pruning out the heavily infested parts of the jasmine prevents the scales from spreading to nearby healthy plant parts.

Beneficial Insects

• The fragrant jasmines, including night-blooming and white jasmine, attract a host of beneficial pollen-and nectar-feeding insects. Butterflies visit the day-blooming varieties to feed, making the fragrant jasmine types a suitable choice for a butterfly garden. Night-blooming jasmine attracts nectar-feeding moths. The plants depend on the butterflies and moths to pollinate the flowers. Jasmine also attracts honeybees and hummingbirds, which makes these plants well-suited for inviting these beneficial creatures to your garden.