What's eating my cheiridopsis denticulata?

Cheiridopsis denticulata is a slow-growing succulent mesemb kept indoors. Like all Cheiridopsis, it is vulnerable primarily to mealybugs — including root mealybugs that lurk below the soil line — and fungus gnats in overwatered pots. The best prevention is bright light, a very gritty compost mix, and careful, infrequent watering.

Cottony white wax on stems or between paired leaves; root-feeding mealybugs leave white powder on roots and pot interior, leading to unexplained wilting. Treat visible mealybugs with isopropyl alcohol swabs. If root mealybugs are confirmed, unpot, clean and dry roots fully before repotting into fresh sterile gritty mix. Consider imidacloprid systemic granules.

Adult gnats hover near soil; larvae in moist compost feed on root tips, causing slow decline or sudden collapse. Water very sparingly and keep the top layer of compost dry. Use yellow sticky traps. Drench with Bti solution to kill larvae; a grit top-dressing also deters egg-laying adults.

Tiny bronze or silver speckles and fine silk webbing on leaves — most common in warm, dry indoor environments in winter. Spray thoroughly with diluted neem oil or insecticidal soap. Isolate the affected plant. Repeat treatment every 5–7 days for three weeks.