What's eating my rhynchostylis gigantea?

Rhynchostylis gigantea, a fragrant monopodial orchid, is most commonly attacked by spider mites, especially when grown in warm low-humidity conditions. Mealybugs colonize the base of leaves and roots, while scale can encrust stems. Aphids may target flower spikes. Consistent humidity and air movement prevent most outbreaks.

Silvery flecking and fine webbing on leaf undersides; leaves turn pale and drop in severe cases Increase humidity, wash foliage with water, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days until resolved

White fluffy wax at leaf bases and along roots; stunted growth and sticky residue Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs; apply neem oil or spinosad spray weekly for 3–4 weeks

Hard or soft bumps on pseudobulbs and stems; honeydew, sooty mould, and yellowing Scrape off manually with a soft toothbrush, then treat with horticultural oil applied thoroughly to all surfaces