Pest identification
What's eating my metallic peperomia?
Mealybugs
Signs: White cottony masses at leaf axils and on stem nodes; dark leaf undersides make early detection harder; affected growth wilts
Control: Inspect undersides regularly; treat with isopropyl alcohol swabs and follow up with insecticidal soap spray; repeat weekly until gone
Spider mites
Signs: Fine pale stippling on the metallic upper leaf surface; webbing in leaf joints in dry conditions; leaves may curl
Control: Raise humidity to above 50%; rinse with water; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days for several weeks
Fungus gnats
Signs: Small flies near the pot; larvae damage roots, causing sudden collapse despite moist soil
Control: Let soil dry between waterings; top-dress with perlite or coarse sand; use Bti drench for established infestations
Keep metallic peperomia pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Metallic Peperomia pests — FAQ
What is eating my metallic peperomia?
Metallic Peperomia's waxy, iridescent foliage is fairly pest-resistant, but mealybugs are the most common problem, hiding against the dark burgundy undersides. Spider mites attack in hot, dry indoor conditions. Root rot from overwatering can invite fungus gnats. Overall pest pressure is low with correct care.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on metallic peperomia?
White cottony masses at leaf axils and on stem nodes; dark leaf undersides make early detection harder; affected growth wilts Inspect undersides regularly; treat with isopropyl alcohol swabs and follow up with insecticidal soap spray; repeat weekly until gone
How do I get rid of spider mites on metallic peperomia?
Fine pale stippling on the metallic upper leaf surface; webbing in leaf joints in dry conditions; leaves may curl Raise humidity to above 50%; rinse with water; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days for several weeks
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on metallic peperomia?
Small flies near the pot; larvae damage roots, causing sudden collapse despite moist soil Let soil dry between waterings; top-dress with perlite or coarse sand; use Bti drench for established infestations