Pest identification
What's eating my aeschynanthus speciosus?
Mealybug
Signs: White cottony deposits at stem nodes and in leaf axils; sap loss causes leaf yellowing and poor flowering
Control: Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol on a swab; spray entire plant with diluted neem oil weekly for a month; check at repotting time
Spider mite
Signs: Tiny pale stipples and fine webbing on undersides of leaves; foliage looks dull and bleached in dry indoor air
Control: Mist regularly to maintain humidity; wash leaves; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days for three rounds
Aphid
Signs: Green or brown insects on shoot tips; distorted new leaves; honeydew leads to sooty mould
Control: Dislodge with a gentle water spray; treat with insecticidal soap; repeat weekly until clear
Keep aeschynanthus speciosus pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Aeschynanthus speciosus pests — FAQ
What is eating my aeschynanthus speciosus?
Aeschynanthus speciosus (orange lipstick plant) is a vigorous indoor trailing gesneriad. Mealybugs are the primary pest concern, sheltering in its dense leaf axils. Spider mites thrive if indoor humidity drops in winter. Aphids may cluster on new shoots. Its robust growth often masks early infestations — monthly inspections of stem joints are worthwhile.
How do I get rid of mealybug on aeschynanthus speciosus?
White cottony deposits at stem nodes and in leaf axils; sap loss causes leaf yellowing and poor flowering Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol on a swab; spray entire plant with diluted neem oil weekly for a month; check at repotting time
How do I get rid of spider mite on aeschynanthus speciosus?
Tiny pale stipples and fine webbing on undersides of leaves; foliage looks dull and bleached in dry indoor air Mist regularly to maintain humidity; wash leaves; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days for three rounds
How do I get rid of aphid on aeschynanthus speciosus?
Green or brown insects on shoot tips; distorted new leaves; honeydew leads to sooty mould Dislodge with a gentle water spray; treat with insecticidal soap; repeat weekly until clear