What's eating my hoya australis?

Hoya Australis, like most hoyas grown indoors, is primarily attacked by mealybugs nesting in its stem nodes and leaf axils. Scale insects and spider mites are common secondary pests. Root mealybugs can also establish undetected in the soil. Monthly checks and good air circulation are the best prevention.

Cottony white masses at stem nodes and leaf joints; sticky honeydew residue, yellowing leaves, and slowed or stopped growth. Dab visible colonies with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a swab; spray with insecticidal soap. For root mealybugs, flush soil with diluted neem drench.

Firm, shield-like brown bumps on stems and leaf undersides; heavy infestations cause yellowing and premature leaf drop. Physically remove scales with a soft brush dipped in soapy water; follow up with horticultural oil spray every 2 weeks.

Pale, stippled or bronzed patches on leaves, particularly visible when light shines through; fine webbing at leaf nodes in severe cases. Raise humidity, wipe foliage with a damp cloth, and apply neem oil or a miticide spray. Repeat every 5–7 days for 3 treatments.