Troubleshooting
Zebra Temple Bells problems — and how to fix them
Zebra Temple Bells (Smithiantha zebrina) 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.
Leaf spot from water contact
Droplets of cold or hard water on the velvety, patterned leaves cause brown spots. Water at the base only, using room-temperature soft water.
Failure to re-sprout after dormancy
Rhizomes dry out completely if storage conditions are too warm and dry. Store dormant rhizomes in barely moist peat at 10–13°C and check monthly for desiccation.
Mealybugs
White cottony clusters hide in leaf axils and on stems. Remove with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol and treat with insecticidal soap if populations spread.
Prevent zebra temple bells problems before they start
Most zebra temple bells issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Zebra Temple Bells problems — FAQ
Why is my zebra temple bells leaf spot from water contact?
Droplets of cold or hard water on the velvety, patterned leaves cause brown spots. Water at the base only, using room-temperature soft water.
Why is my zebra temple bells failure to re-sprout after dormancy?
Rhizomes dry out completely if storage conditions are too warm and dry. Store dormant rhizomes in barely moist peat at 10–13°C and check monthly for desiccation.
Why is my zebra temple bells mealybugs?
White cottony clusters hide in leaf axils and on stems. Remove with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol and treat with insecticidal soap if populations spread.