Troubleshooting
Teotl Palo problems — and how to fix them
Teotl Palo (Fouquieria fasciculata) 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.
Caudex rot
As with all Fouquieria, cool, wet soil is fatal to the water-storing trunk base. Ensure a strict dry rest aligned with cool temperatures and use a very free-draining substrate.
Spine injury to handlers
Clustered spines are rigid and can cause deep puncture wounds. Use thick leather gloves whenever repotting or handling. Site away from pathways and children's play areas.
Mealy bugs in warm glasshouse conditions
Mealy bugs shelter in spine axils and at the caudex neck where they are hard to detect. Inspect regularly with a magnifying lens; treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or a systemic insecticide drench.
Prevent teotl palo problems before they start
Most teotl palo issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Teotl Palo problems — FAQ
Why is my teotl palo caudex rot?
As with all Fouquieria, cool, wet soil is fatal to the water-storing trunk base. Ensure a strict dry rest aligned with cool temperatures and use a very free-draining substrate.
Why is my teotl palo spine injury to handlers?
Clustered spines are rigid and can cause deep puncture wounds. Use thick leather gloves whenever repotting or handling. Site away from pathways and children's play areas.
Why is my teotl palo mealy bugs in warm glasshouse conditions?
Mealy bugs shelter in spine axils and at the caudex neck where they are hard to detect. Inspect regularly with a magnifying lens; treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or a systemic insecticide drench.