Pest identification
What's eating my gibbaeum petrense?
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony clusters nestled in the lobe fissure and around the base of the plant
Control: Dab with isopropyl alcohol swab; follow with neem oil spray on all surfaces; repeat every 7–10 days
Root mealybugs
Signs: Wilting and shrivelling despite correct dormancy management; white wax visible on roots at repotting
Control: Unpot, remove all old soil, soak roots in insecticide drench, allow to dry slightly, repot in mineral grit mix
Spider mites
Signs: Tiny pale flecks on plant body surface; extremely fine webbing in hot dry indoor conditions
Control: Gently clean surfaces with a damp cloth; apply insecticidal soap spray; improve airflow around the plant
Keep gibbaeum petrense pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Gibbaeum petrense pests — FAQ
What is eating my gibbaeum petrense?
Gibbaeum petrense is a dwarf South African mesemb from rocky habitats, grown indoors. Its tight paired bodies create ideal hiding spots for mealybugs. Root mealybugs are a stealthy but damaging threat during summer dormancy. Spider mites can appear under hot, dry indoor conditions. Inspect closely and keep watering disciplined.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on gibbaeum petrense?
White cottony clusters nestled in the lobe fissure and around the base of the plant Dab with isopropyl alcohol swab; follow with neem oil spray on all surfaces; repeat every 7–10 days
How do I get rid of root mealybugs on gibbaeum petrense?
Wilting and shrivelling despite correct dormancy management; white wax visible on roots at repotting Unpot, remove all old soil, soak roots in insecticide drench, allow to dry slightly, repot in mineral grit mix
How do I get rid of spider mites on gibbaeum petrense?
Tiny pale flecks on plant body surface; extremely fine webbing in hot dry indoor conditions Gently clean surfaces with a damp cloth; apply insecticidal soap spray; improve airflow around the plant