Pest identification
What's eating my streptocarpus 'harlequin blue'?
Vine weevil
Signs: Adults notch leaf edges; larvae consume roots causing sudden plant collapse even in moist compost
Control: Use biological nematode treatment (Steinernema kraussei) in spring and late summer; remove larvae by hand when repotting
Mealybugs
Signs: Cottony white clusters in leaf axils and along veins; slow growth and yellowing
Control: Remove with alcohol-tipped swabs; treat with neem oil spray every 7–10 days; isolate from other plants
Aphids
Signs: Colonies on soft new stems and flower stalks; sticky honeydew; distorted flower buds
Control: Knock off with a soft cloth or water spray; apply insecticidal soap; repeat as needed
Keep streptocarpus 'harlequin blue' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Streptocarpus 'Harlequin Blue' pests — FAQ
What is eating my streptocarpus 'harlequin blue'?
Streptocarpus 'Harlequin Blue' is a flowering houseplant prone to vine weevil grub damage at the roots and mealybugs in the leaf folds. Aphids cluster on flower stems and thrips scar the blooms. Correct watering, well-draining compost, and routine inspection beneath leaves catch problems before they escalate.
How do I get rid of vine weevil on streptocarpus 'harlequin blue'?
Adults notch leaf edges; larvae consume roots causing sudden plant collapse even in moist compost Use biological nematode treatment (Steinernema kraussei) in spring and late summer; remove larvae by hand when repotting
How do I get rid of mealybugs on streptocarpus 'harlequin blue'?
Cottony white clusters in leaf axils and along veins; slow growth and yellowing Remove with alcohol-tipped swabs; treat with neem oil spray every 7–10 days; isolate from other plants
How do I get rid of aphids on streptocarpus 'harlequin blue'?
Colonies on soft new stems and flower stalks; sticky honeydew; distorted flower buds Knock off with a soft cloth or water spray; apply insecticidal soap; repeat as needed