Pest identification
What's eating my aeschynanthus lobbianus?
Mealybug
Signs: White cottony fluff at stem joints and leaf axils; leaves yellow; plant weakens and trails poorly
Control: Dab with 70% isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray covering all stem surfaces; repeat weekly for 3–4 weeks
Spider mite
Signs: Tiny pale flecks on leaf surfaces; fine webbing on undersides; leaves lose lustre in dry conditions
Control: Raise humidity by misting or placing on a pebble tray; wash foliage; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days
Aphid
Signs: Small green or brown insects on new shoot tips; leaves curl; sticky honeydew may lead to sooty mould
Control: Rinse off with water; treat with insecticidal soap spray on new growth; repeat weekly until clear
Keep aeschynanthus lobbianus pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Aeschynanthus lobbianus pests — FAQ
What is eating my aeschynanthus lobbianus?
Aeschynanthus lobbianus (lipstick vine) is a generally tough indoor plant but mealybugs are its most common foe, hiding in its waxy leaf axils and trailing stems. Spider mites appear if the air is dry. Aphids occasionally cluster on new growth. Overall pest pressure is low; good humidity and regular inspection keep it clean.
How do I get rid of mealybug on aeschynanthus lobbianus?
White cottony fluff at stem joints and leaf axils; leaves yellow; plant weakens and trails poorly Dab with 70% isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray covering all stem surfaces; repeat weekly for 3–4 weeks
How do I get rid of spider mite on aeschynanthus lobbianus?
Tiny pale flecks on leaf surfaces; fine webbing on undersides; leaves lose lustre in dry conditions Raise humidity by misting or placing on a pebble tray; wash foliage; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days
How do I get rid of aphid on aeschynanthus lobbianus?
Small green or brown insects on new shoot tips; leaves curl; sticky honeydew may lead to sooty mould Rinse off with water; treat with insecticidal soap spray on new growth; repeat weekly until clear