What's eating my cardinal flower sinningia?

Sinningia cardinalis is a tuberous indoor gesneriad with vivid red tubular flowers. Spider mites and mealybugs are the primary threats in warm interiors. Cyclamen mites can distort buds and growing tips. Fungus gnats affect plants that are overwatered. Good air flow and dry-down periods between waterings minimise risk.

Fine stippling and bronzing on leaves; webbing in severe cases; leaves drop prematurely Rinse foliage, raise humidity, and apply neem oil or insecticidal soap spray every 5–7 days for 3 rounds

Fluffy white wax in leaf axils and along stems; honeydew leads to sooty mould Dab individually with alcohol; spray plant thoroughly with insecticidal soap; repeat fortnightly

Larvae feed on roots and may damage tuber; adults are a nuisance at soil surface Reduce watering frequency; use yellow sticky traps; apply Bti drench until adults disappear