What's eating my lipstick plant?

Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus) is most troubled by mealybugs sheltering inside its tubular calyxes and leaf axils. Spider mites attack the glossy leaves in warm dry conditions. Aphids occasionally target new growth and developing flower buds. Its dense trailing stems provide ideal hiding spots — inspect carefully with a hand lens.

White waxy clusters deep inside the calyxes and at stem nodes; leaves yellowing; sticky honeydew deposits Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton bud targeting hidden colonies; follow up with neem oil spray; repeat for 4–6 weeks

Fine pale stippling on glossy leaves; webbing on stems and leaf undersides; plants look dull and bleached Mist foliage to raise humidity; wipe leaves with a damp cloth; apply insecticidal soap or diluted neem oil every 5–7 days

Soft-bodied insects on fresh shoot tips and around emerging flower buds; honeydew and sooty mold follow Remove by hand or with a damp cloth; spray with insecticidal soap; ensure good air circulation around the plant