Pest identification
What's eating my anthurium 'livium'?
Spider mites
Signs: Stippled, bronzy leaves; webbing between stems and on leaf undersides; vigour declines quickly in warm, dry air
Control: Wipe or shower foliage; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days; keep humidity above 50%
Mealybugs
Signs: Cottony white masses in stem sheaths and at the base of petioles; honeydew and sooty mould follow
Control: Remove with alcohol swab; spray neem oil weekly; use a systemic drench for persistent or widespread infestations
Scale insects
Signs: Tan or brown shell-like bumps on stems and midribs; yellowing, sticky leaves
Control: Scrape off with an old toothbrush and rubbing alcohol; apply horticultural oil spray; repeat monthly until clear
Keep anthurium 'livium' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Anthurium 'Livium' pests — FAQ
What is eating my anthurium 'livium'?
Anthurium 'Livium' is an indoor cultivar with the standard anthurium pest vulnerabilities. Spider mites are the most common problem in heated interiors. Mealybugs and scale shelter along stems and in leaf sheaths. Thrips damage the spathe surface. Regular cleaning of the large glossy leaves and adequate humidity are the best defences.
How do I get rid of spider mites on anthurium 'livium'?
Stippled, bronzy leaves; webbing between stems and on leaf undersides; vigour declines quickly in warm, dry air Wipe or shower foliage; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days; keep humidity above 50%
How do I get rid of mealybugs on anthurium 'livium'?
Cottony white masses in stem sheaths and at the base of petioles; honeydew and sooty mould follow Remove with alcohol swab; spray neem oil weekly; use a systemic drench for persistent or widespread infestations
How do I get rid of scale insects on anthurium 'livium'?
Tan or brown shell-like bumps on stems and midribs; yellowing, sticky leaves Scrape off with an old toothbrush and rubbing alcohol; apply horticultural oil spray; repeat monthly until clear