Pest identification
What's eating my piaranthus punctatus?
Mealybugs
Signs: Fluffy white wax at stem joints and soil line; honeydew; stunted or shrivelled stems
Control: Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol swab; apply neem oil spray to the whole plant; repeat every 7–10 days
Root mealybugs
Signs: Gradual decline, wilting, and loss of roots; white powdery film on roots visible when unpotted
Control: Unpot, remove all old soil, soak roots in systemic insecticide or neem solution, repot clean and dry
Spider mites
Signs: Silvery stippling on stems; fine webbing in very warm, dry rooms
Control: Wipe with damp cloth; spray insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve airflow around the plant
Keep piaranthus punctatus pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Piaranthus punctatus pests — FAQ
What is eating my piaranthus punctatus?
Piaranthus punctatus is a spotted South African stapeliad grown indoors. Mealybugs are the most frequent pest, hiding in its angular stem grooves. Root mealybugs are a stealthy secondary threat, and spider mites may appear in hot, arid indoor conditions. Regular close inspection is the best defence for these slow growers.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on piaranthus punctatus?
Fluffy white wax at stem joints and soil line; honeydew; stunted or shrivelled stems Spot-treat with isopropyl alcohol swab; apply neem oil spray to the whole plant; repeat every 7–10 days
How do I get rid of root mealybugs on piaranthus punctatus?
Gradual decline, wilting, and loss of roots; white powdery film on roots visible when unpotted Unpot, remove all old soil, soak roots in systemic insecticide or neem solution, repot clean and dry
How do I get rid of spider mites on piaranthus punctatus?
Silvery stippling on stems; fine webbing in very warm, dry rooms Wipe with damp cloth; spray insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve airflow around the plant