What's eating my hoya kentiana?

Hoya kentiana shares the same pest profile as other wax plants. Mealybugs are the primary indoor threat, hiding in the narrow leaf axils and along trailing vines. Spider mites become problematic in dry indoor air. Regular inspection — especially during heating season — is the most effective defense.

White waxy tufts at leaf axils and nodes; honeydew and sooty mold on leaves; stunted or distorted new growth. Dab colonies with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Spray the whole plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly for 3–4 weeks. Keep isolated until pest-free.

Tiny pale dots on leaf surfaces and fine webbing under leaves; leaves may turn dull bronze in heavy infestations. Rinse the plant thoroughly under the shower and mist regularly. Apply neem oil or diluted horticultural soap to both sides of leaves every 5–7 days.

Hard or soft dome-shaped bumps on stems; yellowing leaves; sticky, shiny honeydew deposits attract sooty mold. Remove visible scales manually with a soft brush and alcohol, then treat stems with horticultural oil sprays repeated every 10 days until clear.