Pest identification
What's eating my euphorbia aeruginosa?
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony residue at stem forks and the crown; sticky deposits; slow growth and yellowing of stems
Control: Apply isopropyl alcohol with a cotton swab to all visible colonies; spray neem oil over the whole plant weekly until clear
Spider mites
Signs: Tiny pale stipples on green stem surfaces; possible fine webbing at branch tips; stems may look dull or yellowish
Control: Improve air circulation and humidity; rinse stems carefully; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5-7 days
Scale insects
Signs: Small brown or white bumps adhering along stems; loss of colour and vigour; sticky honeydew residue
Control: Scrape off gently with a toothbrush; wipe stems with alcohol; apply horticultural oil on a 7-10 day cycle
Keep euphorbia aeruginosa pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Euphorbia aeruginosa pests — FAQ
What is eating my euphorbia aeruginosa?
Euphorbia aeruginosa is a small, spiny succulent Euphorbia that is rarely seriously pestered indoors. Mealybugs are the most common issue, hiding at stem joints and the soil line. Spider mites can appear in arid conditions. The plant's milky latex offers some natural protection against chewing insects.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on euphorbia aeruginosa?
White cottony residue at stem forks and the crown; sticky deposits; slow growth and yellowing of stems Apply isopropyl alcohol with a cotton swab to all visible colonies; spray neem oil over the whole plant weekly until clear
How do I get rid of spider mites on euphorbia aeruginosa?
Tiny pale stipples on green stem surfaces; possible fine webbing at branch tips; stems may look dull or yellowish Improve air circulation and humidity; rinse stems carefully; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5-7 days
How do I get rid of scale insects on euphorbia aeruginosa?
Small brown or white bumps adhering along stems; loss of colour and vigour; sticky honeydew residue Scrape off gently with a toothbrush; wipe stems with alcohol; apply horticultural oil on a 7-10 day cycle