What's eating my paddle plant (flapjacks)?

Paddle Plant is most threatened by mealybugs sheltering between the broad paddle-like leaves, and by aphids on flowering stems. Scale insects can encrust older leaf bases. Fungus gnats breed in wet soil. The large flat leaves make mealybug egg sacs easy to spot on the underside if inspected with a flashlight.

Cottony white clusters between leaves and at the stem base; leaves yellow and develop dry patches Swab colonies with isopropyl alcohol; spray with diluted neem oil weekly; check the underside of every leaf

Soft-bodied insects massing on flower stalks and new buds; distorted flowers and sticky residue Remove by hand or with a water jet; apply insecticidal soap every five days until clear

Hard brown or pale bumps along stems and leaf bases; stunted growth and faint honeydew Scrape off with a soft toothbrush dipped in soapy water; treat with systemic insecticidal soap if heavy