Reference photo — compare the narrow adult and pale immature stages on your own plant

Pests · Plant health field guide

Thrips

Thrips are slender insects that often damage unfolding leaves and flowers.

Isolate nowPossible cause—not a diagnosis. Compare the visible signs, plant identity, and growing conditions before treating.

Check one of my plants Browse another problem

Signs you may notice

silvery scars
distorted new growth
dark specks
tiny insects

Safe first checks

Inspect new growth, flowers, leaf undersides, and tap foliage over white paper.
Move the plant away from the collection.
Inspect both sides of leaves, stems, crevices, and the pot.
Photograph the signs before cleaning so you can compare changes.

Can look similar to

Overlapping symptoms are common. Compare these alternatives before choosing a treatment.

spider mites
mechanical damage
edema

What to avoid

Do not apply several pesticides at once or treat before confirming that a living pest is present.

Record and follow up

Reinspect the isolated plant and nearby plants every few days. Record living pests, new damage, and treatment response before deciding the problem is resolved.

Seek qualified local help when damage is severe, rapidly spreading, or may involve a regulated pest or disease.