What's eating my mahonia soft caress?

Mahonia eurybracteata 'Soft Caress' is largely pest-free in most garden settings — the RHS notes it as generally pest-free. Berberis sawfly can affect it as it does all Mahonia, and aphids may settle on new growth. Its soft, non-spiny foliage makes it slightly more palatable to deer than spiny mahonias. Routine inspection is sufficient for most gardens.

Caterpillar-like larvae feed on and can completely strip leaves across multiple generations from late spring through autumn. Hand-pick larvae promptly when spotted. Apply pyrethrin or spinosad spray if colonies are large; repeat for successive generations.

Small green insects cluster on new shoot tips, causing leaf curl and honeydew deposits. Knock off with water; treat persistent colonies with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Conserve natural predators.

Soft, non-spiny foliage is more accessible to deer than spiny Mahonia species; browsing causes ragged shoot tips and overall reduction in vigour. Apply deer-repellent sprays around the plant; use physical fencing in high-pressure areas. Plant alongside spiny neighbours as a deterrent.