What's eating my hoya polyneura (fishtail hoya)?

Hoya polyneura (Fishtail Hoya) is a relatively tough houseplant but mealybugs are its most common pest, exploiting the narrow leaf axils and vine nodes. Spider mites emerge in dry winter conditions. Waxy leaves make it easier to wipe pests off, so regular physical cleaning is an effective first response.

Fluffy white deposits at stem joints and leaf bases; sticky honeydew and sooty mould may follow. Dab with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs and spray with diluted neem oil; repeat every 10 days until clear.

Tiny pale dots on the distinctive fish-tail-veined leaves; webbing on undersides in dry, warm rooms. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth, increase humidity, and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.

Hard or soft brown bumps adhered to stems; yellowing leaves and a general decline in plant vigour. Scrape off with a soft brush, apply horticultural oil spray, and monitor for crawlers over the following weeks.