Pest identification
What's eating my aloe erinacea?
Mealybugs
Signs: White waxy deposits buried deep in the armoured rosette; very difficult to spot until the colony is large.
Control: Use a fine cotton swab with 70% isopropyl alcohol to reach inside the rosette; repeat weekly and follow with neem oil.
Scale insects
Signs: Waxy bumps on stems or outer leaf bases reducing plant vigour.
Control: Scrape off with a soft brush; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil solution every 10–14 days.
Keep aloe erinacea pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Aloe Erinacea pests — FAQ
What is eating my aloe erinacea?
Aloe erinacea (Hedgehog Aloe) is a slow-growing, heavily-armed Namibian species rarely bothered by pests indoors. Its extreme drought adaptation means it tolerates neglect well. Mealybugs can hide deep in the tightly packed rosette. Scale insects are an occasional secondary issue. Overwatering causing root rot is a far greater risk than any pest.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on aloe erinacea?
White waxy deposits buried deep in the armoured rosette; very difficult to spot until the colony is large. Use a fine cotton swab with 70% isopropyl alcohol to reach inside the rosette; repeat weekly and follow with neem oil.
How do I get rid of scale insects on aloe erinacea?
Waxy bumps on stems or outer leaf bases reducing plant vigour. Scrape off with a soft brush; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil solution every 10–14 days.