What's eating my ruschia uncinata?

Ruschia uncinata, a small shrubby South African mesemb, is vulnerable to mealybugs as its primary pest, followed by spider mites in dry indoor conditions. Root mealybugs can go unnoticed until the plant declines. Its succulent, water-storing leaves make it relatively unattractive to most sap-sucking pests when healthy and properly watered.

Cottony white masses at stem junctions; leaves may yellow, shrivel, or drop as feeding continues Remove colonies with alcohol-dipped cotton swabs; treat with neem oil spray weekly; for heavy infestations use a systemic insecticide

Unexplained decline, wilting despite adequate moisture; white waxy residue on roots when unpotted Unpot and inspect roots; wash away all infested soil; soak roots briefly in imidacloprid solution; repot in fresh gritty mix

Microscopic stippling on leaf surfaces; fine webs bridging stems; leaves lose sheen in dry heated rooms Wipe foliage with a damp cloth; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; move plant away from heating vents