What's eating my coontie?

Coontie (Zamia integrifolia) is most seriously damaged by the Florida fern caterpillar and the Atala butterfly larva (which feeds exclusively on Zamia). Scale insects — particularly cycad scale — are also a significant threat. Mealybugs occur indoors. Monitor new growth closely, as the emerging croziers are most vulnerable to chewing pests.

Colorful caterpillars strip leaflets completely; a Florida-native specialist feeder on Zamia Hand-pick caterpillars if defoliation is severe; in conservation areas, allow feeding as Atala is a protected species — consult local guidance

White powdery armor on frond undersides and stems; yellowing, frond death with heavy infestations Horticultural oil spray on all frond surfaces; repeat every 2 weeks; systemic imidacloprid drench for severe cases

White fluffy colonies at leaf bases and crown, sticky deposits, and slowed new growth Isopropyl alcohol spot treatment; weekly neem oil spray until clear

Notched and ragged leaflet margins; feeding mostly at night, making detection tricky Hand-pick at dusk; apply Bt spray targeting young caterpillars; check soil for pupae