What's eating my dinteranthus vanzylii?

Dinteranthus vanzylii, a prized collector's mesemb, is susceptible to mealybugs nesting in the groove between its silvery leaf bodies and to root mealybugs in the compost. Spider mites may appear under very dry conditions. The best defence is a strict watering schedule, excellent drainage, and inspecting plants closely at each watering.

Fluffy white wax in the body cleft; sticky honeydew and leaf distortion over time Swab individual insects with isopropyl alcohol; apply insecticidal soap or diluted neem oil around the leaf base as a follow-up treatment

Unexplained wilting and failure to plump up; white waxy material on roots and in soil Remove plant from pot, treat root zone with imidacloprid drench or alcohol rinse, and replant in fresh mineral-heavy compost

Subtle bronze discolouration or fine pitting on leaf surfaces in hot, arid positions Increase air circulation; wipe leaves carefully with a damp soft cloth; apply insecticidal soap if infestation is confirmed