Troubleshooting
Hairy Parakohleria problems — and how to fix them
Hairy Parakohleria (Parakohleria villosa) 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.
Crown and stem rot
Overwatering or splashing water directly onto the hairy stem base leads to rot. Water at the soil level only and ensure excellent drainage. Remove affected stems promptly and allow the plant to dry slightly before resuming watering.
Botrytis (grey mould) on foliage
Hairy leaves trap moisture and are prone to Botrytis in humid, poorly ventilated spaces. Ensure gentle airflow, avoid overhead watering, and remove any dead or damaged leaves promptly.
Mealy bugs in leaf axils
Mealy bugs hide in the axils of hairy-leaved gesneriads and are difficult to spot. Inspect regularly; treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or diluted neem oil applied carefully to avoid wetting all foliage.
Prevent hairy parakohleria problems before they start
Most hairy parakohleria issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hairy Parakohleria problems — FAQ
Why is my hairy parakohleria crown and stem rot?
Overwatering or splashing water directly onto the hairy stem base leads to rot. Water at the soil level only and ensure excellent drainage. Remove affected stems promptly and allow the plant to dry slightly before resuming watering.
Why is my hairy parakohleria botrytis (grey mould) on foliage?
Hairy leaves trap moisture and are prone to Botrytis in humid, poorly ventilated spaces. Ensure gentle airflow, avoid overhead watering, and remove any dead or damaged leaves promptly.
Why is my hairy parakohleria mealy bugs in leaf axils?
Mealy bugs hide in the axils of hairy-leaved gesneriads and are difficult to spot. Inspect regularly; treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or diluted neem oil applied carefully to avoid wetting all foliage.