Troubleshooting
Duvalia polita problems — and how to fix them
Duvalia polita (Duvalia polita) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Stem rot
Smooth stems blacken and collapse from overwatering or winter moisture. Keep almost dry in the cold months and grow in a very gritty, fast-draining mix.
Etiolation
Stems stretch and lose their compact form in low light, and flowering stops. Increase light, including a little direct morning sun.
Mealybugs
White waxy clusters hide between the clustered stems and on the roots. Remove with an alcohol swab or apply a systemic insecticide, and inspect roots when repotting.
Wrinkled stems
Light shrivelling in the dormant season is normal. Sustained shrivelling during growth usually means rotted roots rather than thirst, so investigate the root system before adding water.
Prevent duvalia polita problems before they start
Most duvalia polita issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for duvalia polita in general rather than its problems? Read the full duvalia polita care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Duvalia polita problems — FAQ
Why is my duvalia polita stem rot?
Smooth stems blacken and collapse from overwatering or winter moisture. Keep almost dry in the cold months and grow in a very gritty, fast-draining mix.
Why is my duvalia polita etiolation?
Stems stretch and lose their compact form in low light, and flowering stops. Increase light, including a little direct morning sun.
Why is my duvalia polita mealybugs?
White waxy clusters hide between the clustered stems and on the roots. Remove with an alcohol swab or apply a systemic insecticide, and inspect roots when repotting.
Why is my duvalia polita wrinkled stems?
Light shrivelling in the dormant season is normal. Sustained shrivelling during growth usually means rotted roots rather than thirst, so investigate the root system before adding water.