What's eating my natal cycad?

Natal Cycad (Encephalartos natalensis) in cultivation is most threatened by cycad scale (Aulacaspis yasumatsui) and mealybugs, which can rapidly defoliate plants. Outdoors, caterpillars and weevils occasionally damage fronds. Cycad scale is a devastating invasive pest — early detection and thorough treatment are critical for this slow-growing, high-value species.

Dense white armored scale colonies coat fronds, stems, and roots; leaves turn yellow and brown, and plants can die if untreated. Apply horticultural oil thoroughly to all surfaces including roots; repeat every 10–14 days for months; consider soil drenches of systemic insecticide for severe infestations.

White woolly clusters in leaf bases and on the caudex; sap feeding weakens fronds and leaves sticky residue. Remove manually with alcohol swabs; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil on a weekly schedule until clear.

Irregular holes or entire leaflets eaten from the margins; damage most visible on new flush growth. Pick off by hand if numbers are low; apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray for heavier infestations outdoors.