What's eating my euphorbia pseudocactus?

Euphorbia pseudocactus, the false cactus, faces the same indoor pest pressures as other cactus-like euphorbias. Mealybugs are the primary threat, congregating in the angled stem valleys. Spider mites thrive when indoor air is too dry. Root mealybugs can silently attack the roots if soil stays damp.

Cottony white deposits in the angular grooves and at branch bases; general decline and yellowing if unchecked. Spot-treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab; drench with diluted neem solution if root mealybugs are suspected.

Fine webbing and pale yellow stippling along the ribs; the plant looks dusty even when clean. Improve airflow and humidity; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray weekly for three treatments.

Powdery white wax visible at soil level or on roots when repotting; plant wilts despite adequate watering. Unpot, wash roots, let dry, then repot in fresh well-draining mix; drench soil with diluted neem or beneficial nematodes.