Pest identification
What's eating my calico flower?
Pipevine swallowtail caterpillars
Signs: Complete or near-complete defoliation; caterpillars work quickly in warm weather
Control: Relocate caterpillars to other Aristolochia; tolerate where possible; do not spray pesticides that harm butterflies
Spider mites
Signs: Pale speckling on leaf surfaces; webbing under leaves; premature yellowing and drop
Control: Mist daily to raise humidity; wash with insecticidal soap; apply neem oil every 7–10 days
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony clusters in leaf axils; honeydew and sooty mould; stunted shoots
Control: Dab with alcohol; treat whole plant with insecticidal soap; repeat weekly for three or more cycles
Keep calico flower pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Calico flower pests — FAQ
What is eating my calico flower?
Calico flower (Aristolochia elegans) is a tropical vine grown indoors or in warm climates. Pipevine swallowtail caterpillars readily use it as a host and can strip leaves fast. Spider mites and mealybugs occur on indoor plants. The vine often recovers from feeding, but spider mites require prompt treatment.
How do I get rid of pipevine swallowtail caterpillars on calico flower?
Complete or near-complete defoliation; caterpillars work quickly in warm weather Relocate caterpillars to other Aristolochia; tolerate where possible; do not spray pesticides that harm butterflies
How do I get rid of spider mites on calico flower?
Pale speckling on leaf surfaces; webbing under leaves; premature yellowing and drop Mist daily to raise humidity; wash with insecticidal soap; apply neem oil every 7–10 days
How do I get rid of mealybugs on calico flower?
White cottony clusters in leaf axils; honeydew and sooty mould; stunted shoots Dab with alcohol; treat whole plant with insecticidal soap; repeat weekly for three or more cycles