Pest identification
What's eating my agave marmorata?
Agave snout weevil (Scyphophorus acupunctatus)
Signs: Crown rot and sudden leaf collapse as larvae eat through the base of the rosette
Control: Remove and destroy infested plants promptly. Apply preventive systemic drench in spring; never let plants sit in wet soil.
Mealybugs
Signs: Cottony white masses at the base of leaves and in tight axils; honeydew and sooty mould follow
Control: Treat with isopropyl alcohol swabs and neem oil spray; repeat weekly until clear.
Fungus gnats
Signs: Larvae feed on fine roots in waterlogged soil; adult gnats hover around the potting mix
Control: Allow soil to dry thoroughly between waterings; use sticky yellow traps for adults; apply Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) drench for larvae.
Keep agave marmorata pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Agave marmorata pests — FAQ
What is eating my agave marmorata?
Agave marmorata is a bold, marbled-leaf houseplant susceptible mainly to agave snout weevil and mealybugs. Its broad, fleshy leaves also attract scale insects if air circulation is poor. Overly moist soil from over-watering invites fungus gnats. Keep growing conditions dry and inspect the crown and leaf axils monthly.
How do I get rid of agave snout weevil (scyphophorus acupunctatus) on agave marmorata?
Crown rot and sudden leaf collapse as larvae eat through the base of the rosette Remove and destroy infested plants promptly. Apply preventive systemic drench in spring; never let plants sit in wet soil.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on agave marmorata?
Cottony white masses at the base of leaves and in tight axils; honeydew and sooty mould follow Treat with isopropyl alcohol swabs and neem oil spray; repeat weekly until clear.
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on agave marmorata?
Larvae feed on fine roots in waterlogged soil; adult gnats hover around the potting mix Allow soil to dry thoroughly between waterings; use sticky yellow traps for adults; apply Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) drench for larvae.