What's eating my euphorbia flanaganii?

Euphorbia flanaganii (medusa's head euphorbia) is most commonly affected by mealybugs tucking into the joints between the central head and its many radiating arms, and by spider mites in dry indoor air. Its sprawling structure creates many sheltered microhabitats for pests. Handle with care — the latex sap is a serious irritant.

Cottony white patches at the junction of the central head and arms, and at arm tips; honeydew; weakened or shrivelling arms Apply isopropyl alcohol with a fine cotton swab at each joint (wear gloves); spray neem oil; repeat every 7–10 days for 3–4 cycles

Stippled, dull, or bronzed patches along the cylindrical arms; fine webbing in dry conditions Spray insecticidal soap solution thoroughly along all arms; boost humidity slightly; repeat weekly for 3 treatments

Wilting and poor growth despite correct watering; white powdery wax found on roots when unpotted Unpot, remove all soil, treat roots with systemic insecticide drench, dry fully and repot into fresh sterile cactus compost