Pest identification
What's eating my aeschynanthus pulcher?
Mealybug
Signs: Waxy white deposits at stem nodes and leaf bases; affected stems wilt and leaves turn yellow
Control: Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab; follow with a neem oil spray to all stem surfaces, weekly for a month
Spider mite
Signs: Stippled, silvery leaves with fine webbing on undersides, especially in low-humidity indoor environments
Control: Increase humidity; wipe leaves with a damp cloth; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, repeating every 5–7 days
Aphid
Signs: Clusters of small insects on soft new growth; distorted shoots; sticky residue on lower leaves
Control: Rinse with lukewarm water; apply insecticidal soap spray to infested tips; inspect weekly
Keep aeschynanthus pulcher pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Aeschynanthus pulcher pests — FAQ
What is eating my aeschynanthus pulcher?
Aeschynanthus pulcher (royal red bugler) is a robust trailing indoor plant with relatively low pest susceptibility. Mealybugs are the most frequent problem, sheltering in leaf axils along its long stems. Spider mites attack in dry air, and aphids may appear on tender new shoots. Prompt action at first sighting prevents spread.
How do I get rid of mealybug on aeschynanthus pulcher?
Waxy white deposits at stem nodes and leaf bases; affected stems wilt and leaves turn yellow Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab; follow with a neem oil spray to all stem surfaces, weekly for a month
How do I get rid of spider mite on aeschynanthus pulcher?
Stippled, silvery leaves with fine webbing on undersides, especially in low-humidity indoor environments Increase humidity; wipe leaves with a damp cloth; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, repeating every 5–7 days
How do I get rid of aphid on aeschynanthus pulcher?
Clusters of small insects on soft new growth; distorted shoots; sticky residue on lower leaves Rinse with lukewarm water; apply insecticidal soap spray to infested tips; inspect weekly