Pest identification
What's eating my duvalia polita?
Mealybugs
Signs: White woolly clusters at stem bases and in tight joints; sticky honeydew; shrinkage of affected stems
Control: Dab with alcohol swab; follow with neem oil spray on whole plant; repeat weekly until no signs remain
Root mealybugs
Signs: Wilting, yellowing, and slow death despite correct watering; white wax on root system
Control: Remove from pot, shake off all soil, soak roots in neem or imidacloprid solution, repot in sterile mix
Fungus gnats
Signs: Adult flies hovering around pot; larval root feeding causing poor growth
Control: Let soil dry completely between waterings; apply Bti drench; use sticky yellow traps to monitor adults
Keep duvalia polita pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Duvalia polita pests — FAQ
What is eating my duvalia polita?
Duvalia polita is a smooth-stemmed South African stapeliad grown as an indoor succulent. Like its relatives, it is most vulnerable to mealybugs nestled at stem bases. Root mealybugs are a serious hidden threat. Overwatering also invites fungus gnats and root rot, so a very gritty, fast-draining mix is essential.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on duvalia polita?
White woolly clusters at stem bases and in tight joints; sticky honeydew; shrinkage of affected stems Dab with alcohol swab; follow with neem oil spray on whole plant; repeat weekly until no signs remain
How do I get rid of root mealybugs on duvalia polita?
Wilting, yellowing, and slow death despite correct watering; white wax on root system Remove from pot, shake off all soil, soak roots in neem or imidacloprid solution, repot in sterile mix
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on duvalia polita?
Adult flies hovering around pot; larval root feeding causing poor growth Let soil dry completely between waterings; apply Bti drench; use sticky yellow traps to monitor adults