What's eating my lightning jewel orchid?

Macodes petola, the lightning jewel orchid, is a delicate terrestrial houseplant most vulnerable to fungus gnats, which thrive in the moist, bark-rich growing medium it needs. Mealybugs and spider mites can also damage its striking iridescent leaves. Good air circulation and careful watering prevent most problems.

Adult gnats hover around soil; larvae destroy fine feeder roots, causing sudden wilting and poor growth Use well-draining orchid bark mix; let the surface dry slightly; use yellow sticky traps; apply Bti soil drench

Cottony white deposits at leaf bases and in crevices; plant weakens and leaves may yellow Dab with alcohol-soaked swab; apply neem oil solution; inspect weekly and isolate from other plants

Tiny pale spots on leaf surfaces and loss of the distinctive golden veining shimmer; webbing under leaves Maintain high humidity in a terrarium or cloche; wipe leaves with a damp cloth; use insecticidal soap if infestation persists