What's eating my philodendron serpens (fuzzy petiole)?

Philodendron serpens (Fuzzy Petiole) has uniquely hairy, textured petioles that trap moisture and debris — ideal hiding spots for mealybugs. Spider mites attack the leaf undersides in dry conditions. Fungus gnats can be a problem if the moist, warm conditions the plant prefers result in consistently wet soil.

White waxy colonies hidden among the fuzzy petiole hairs and at stem nodes; honeydew and mould develop Use a soft toothbrush dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean petioles; follow with neem oil spray; re-inspect weekly

Pale stippling on leaf surfaces; webbing on leaf undersides; leaves yellow and look dry Spray leaf undersides with insecticidal soap or neem oil; increase humidity; shower the plant to dislodge colonies

Larvae feed on fine roots in moist soil, causing wilting and poor growth; adults visible near soil Allow top inch of soil to dry out; apply Bti drench; use yellow sticky traps to catch adults