Pest identification
What's eating my basket plant?
Spider mites
Signs: Silvery stippling on leaves; fine webbing at stem tips; foliage yellows and drops in heavy infestations
Control: Shower plant thoroughly, then spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7 days for 3 weeks
Mealybugs
Signs: Cottony white masses nestled between leaves in the central rosette; sticky honeydew on lower leaves
Control: Use an alcohol-tipped swab on visible bugs, follow with a neem oil drench into the rosette
Scale insects
Signs: Small brown or tan bumps on stems; sap loss causes yellowing and stunted offshoots
Control: Scrape off scales with a soft toothbrush, then apply neem oil or a systemic houseplant insecticide
Keep basket plant pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Basket Plant pests — FAQ
What is eating my basket plant?
Callisia fragrans (Basket Plant) is most commonly attacked by spider mites in dry indoor conditions. Mealybugs exploit its dense rosette growth, hiding deep between leaves. Scale insects occasionally appear on older stems. Regular misting, good airflow, and periodic showers keep infestations from taking hold.
How do I get rid of spider mites on basket plant?
Silvery stippling on leaves; fine webbing at stem tips; foliage yellows and drops in heavy infestations Shower plant thoroughly, then spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7 days for 3 weeks
How do I get rid of mealybugs on basket plant?
Cottony white masses nestled between leaves in the central rosette; sticky honeydew on lower leaves Use an alcohol-tipped swab on visible bugs, follow with a neem oil drench into the rosette
How do I get rid of scale insects on basket plant?
Small brown or tan bumps on stems; sap loss causes yellowing and stunted offshoots Scrape off scales with a soft toothbrush, then apply neem oil or a systemic houseplant insecticide