Pest identification
What's eating my coral cactus?
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony deposits in crest folds and at the graft junction; wilting crest despite adequate water
Control: Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol with a fine-tipped cotton swab into all crest grooves; repeat weekly
Spider mites
Signs: Fine webbing across the crested fan; dulling or browning of the purple/silver edges
Control: Mist carefully with insecticidal soap; improve airflow; avoid hot, direct radiator heat
Scale insects
Signs: Tan or brown bumps on the rootstock column and lower crest; honeydew residue
Control: Scrub off manually with a toothbrush and alcohol; follow up with horticultural oil spray
Keep coral cactus pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Coral Cactus pests — FAQ
What is eating my coral cactus?
Coral Cactus (Euphorbia lactea 'Cristata') is a grafted novelty vulnerable to mealybugs along its fan-like crested ridges and at the graft union. Spider mites exploit dry indoor air, and scale can colonise the rootstock. The toxic latex deters casual chewing pests. Check the graft junction closely — pests hiding there can kill the scion.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on coral cactus?
White cottony deposits in crest folds and at the graft junction; wilting crest despite adequate water Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol with a fine-tipped cotton swab into all crest grooves; repeat weekly
How do I get rid of spider mites on coral cactus?
Fine webbing across the crested fan; dulling or browning of the purple/silver edges Mist carefully with insecticidal soap; improve airflow; avoid hot, direct radiator heat
How do I get rid of scale insects on coral cactus?
Tan or brown bumps on the rootstock column and lower crest; honeydew residue Scrub off manually with a toothbrush and alcohol; follow up with horticultural oil spray