Pest identification
What's eating my philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)?
Spider mites
Signs: Pale, dusty stippling across the large leaf surfaces; fine webbing on undersides; leaves yellow and drop
Control: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap; raise humidity; repeat every 7 days
Mealybugs
Signs: White cotton-like masses in leaf lobes, axils, and petiole bases; sticky honeydew residue
Control: Dab colonies with alcohol swab; drench with insecticidal soap solution; isolate plant and re-check weekly
Scale insects
Signs: Brown or white dome-shaped bumps fixed on stems; leaves turn yellow; plant weakens over time
Control: Scrape off with a soft brush; apply horticultural oil spray; repeat treatment after 14 days
Keep philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Philodendron Bipennifolium (Horsehead) pests — FAQ
What is eating my philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)?
Philodendron bipennifolium (Horsehead) is a large indoor climber whose broad, horse-head-shaped leaves attract spider mites and mealybugs. The pronounced leaf lobes and petioles give mealybugs excellent hiding spots. Scale insects can establish on older woody stems. Regular inspection of the large leaf surfaces and climbing stem is essential.
How do I get rid of spider mites on philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)?
Pale, dusty stippling across the large leaf surfaces; fine webbing on undersides; leaves yellow and drop Wipe leaves with a damp cloth; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap; raise humidity; repeat every 7 days
How do I get rid of mealybugs on philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)?
White cotton-like masses in leaf lobes, axils, and petiole bases; sticky honeydew residue Dab colonies with alcohol swab; drench with insecticidal soap solution; isolate plant and re-check weekly
How do I get rid of scale insects on philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)?
Brown or white dome-shaped bumps fixed on stems; leaves turn yellow; plant weakens over time Scrape off with a soft brush; apply horticultural oil spray; repeat treatment after 14 days