What's eating my philodendron erubescens?

Philodendron erubescens (blushing Philodendron) is a vigorous climbing species that attracts spider mites, mealybugs, and scale — especially on mature stems. Its velvety new growth is a magnet for thrips. Inspect the climbing support and stem nodes closely, as pests congregate where stems contact the moss pole or totem.

Tiny pale dots across leaf lamina; webbing on undersides and near stem nodes; accelerated in low-humidity conditions. Mist the plant and support, apply neem oil or miticide spray weekly to all surfaces; maintain humidity above 55%.

White wax clusters at nodes, in leaf sheaths, and on the aerial roots and climbing support. Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol with a cotton swab to each colony; follow with insecticidal soap spray every 7–10 days.

Silvery bronze streaks on new erubescent leaves; distorted unfurling growth; black frass specs. Remove badly affected leaves; treat with spinosad or neem oil every 5–7 days; quarantine from other plants until clear.