What's eating my california sunset?

California Sunset is a Graptosedum hybrid succulent with rosettes that flush apricot-orange in bright light, grown indoors or in frost-free gardens. Mealybugs are the most common threat, while thrips and aphids can also appear. Good airflow and prompt inspection of new growth keep infestations manageable. Most pest problems resolve quickly with isopropyl alcohol or insecticidal soap.

White cottony deposits in leaf axils and stem bases; leaves yellow and become soft or shrivelled with sustained feeding Dab directly with a cotton swab soaked in 70% isopropyl alcohol; spray insecticidal soap for widespread infestation; repeat weekly until clear

Silvery streaks and tiny black frass on leaf surfaces; new growth emerges distorted or scarred Remove heavily affected leaves; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; use blue sticky traps to monitor adult populations; repeat every 5–7 days

Soft-bodied insects on new rosette growth and flower stems; sticky honeydew and leaf curl are typical signs Blast off with water, then apply insecticidal soap spray; check and treat again after 7 days if colonies return