What's eating my columnea?

Columnea gloriosa, a tropical gesneriad grown indoors or in hanging baskets, is most commonly attacked by aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. The trailing stems and tubular flowers trap pests in hard-to-spot places. Spider mites in dry indoor air are the most frequent problem and can cause severe foliage damage quickly.

Tiny pale dots across leaves, undersides covered in fine webbing; leaves bronze and drop in dry heat Mist foliage frequently; move away from radiators; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to all leaf surfaces

White fluffy deposits in leaf axils and along trailing stems; plant weakens, leaves yellow Dab with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab; apply neem oil; isolate from other houseplants

Soft clusters on new shoots and flower buds; sticky honeydew causes sooty mold and distorted growth Remove by hand or gentle water rinse; spray insecticidal soap; ensure good ventilation to discourage repeat infestations