What's eating my rattlesnake plant?

Rattlesnake plant (Goeppertia insignis) is most vulnerable to spider mites, which cause visible damage to its decorative wavy leaves. Mealybugs and fungus gnats are also common, the latter encouraged by the constantly moist soil this plant prefers. Keeping humidity high and inspecting the distinctive patterned leaves weekly helps catch problems early.

Pale, washed-out stippling distorts the dark-green spots on the leaf surface; webbing on undersides Boost ambient humidity; rinse leaves with tepid water; spray all surfaces with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly

White waxy clusters inside leaf rolls and stem bases; honeydew leads to sooty mould; growth stalls Dab visible colonies with isopropyl alcohol; treat with insecticidal soap; check deep inside curled leaves

Adults hover over soil; larvae damage fine feeder roots, leading to yellowing and poor growth Allow top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings; apply Bti drench; use yellow sticky traps to monitor