Pest identification
What's eating my adromischus maculatus?
Mealybugs
Signs: White woolly patches at leaf bases and stem nodes; slow growth; leaves may drop prematurely
Control: Remove with alcohol swabs; spray with diluted neem oil every 7–10 days; inspect neighbouring plants and treat as needed
Scale insects
Signs: Raised brown or tan shells fixed to stems; sap removed causes yellowing and weakened vigour
Control: Scrub off with a soft brush dipped in insecticidal soap; repeat applications of neem oil for 3–4 weeks
Fungus gnats
Signs: Larvae feed on fine roots in overwatered compost; adults hover around soil; plants stall or wilt
Control: Water sparingly; let surface dry out completely; apply Bti drench or predatory nematodes to soil
Keep adromischus maculatus pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Adromischus Maculatus pests — FAQ
What is eating my adromischus maculatus?
Adromischus Maculatus (Calico Hearts) faces the greatest indoor pest threat from mealybugs, which are drawn to the stem joints and undersides of the thick spotted leaves. Scale insects also appear on stems. Treat at the first sign of white woolly residue — populations build quickly on compact succulents in warm rooms.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on adromischus maculatus?
White woolly patches at leaf bases and stem nodes; slow growth; leaves may drop prematurely Remove with alcohol swabs; spray with diluted neem oil every 7–10 days; inspect neighbouring plants and treat as needed
How do I get rid of scale insects on adromischus maculatus?
Raised brown or tan shells fixed to stems; sap removed causes yellowing and weakened vigour Scrub off with a soft brush dipped in insecticidal soap; repeat applications of neem oil for 3–4 weeks
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on adromischus maculatus?
Larvae feed on fine roots in overwatered compost; adults hover around soil; plants stall or wilt Water sparingly; let surface dry out completely; apply Bti drench or predatory nematodes to soil