What's eating my begonia odorata?

Begonia odorata kept as a houseplant is primarily attacked by mealybugs and spider mites. The fragrant foliage and humid growing conditions also make it attractive to aphids. Weekly inspection of stems and leaf undersides, prompt removal of affected material, and adequate air circulation are the best preventive measures.

Waxy white tufts at nodes and in leaf axils; plant weakens, honeydew causes sooty mould. Remove colonies with an alcohol swab; drench and spray with neem oil solution every seven days for four weeks.

Tiny pale dots on leaf surfaces and fine webbing on undersides; leaves yellow and drop when populations build. Shower the plant to knock mites off; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil every five days and raise ambient humidity.

Clusters of green or black insects on soft new shoots and flower buds; sticky honeydew and leaf curl. Blast off with water; apply insecticidal soap spray every five days and remove any ant colonies that may be farming them.