What's eating my sempervivum 'emerald empress'?

Sempervivum 'Emerald Empress' kept as a houseplant is most troubled by mealybugs hiding in the tight rosette centre, and by spider mites in warm dry indoor conditions. Aphids occasionally attack new growth. Its thick leaves resist most pests well; good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering are the best preventive measures.

Cottony white deposits in the dense rosette centre or at leaf bases; stunted, yellowing inner leaves Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol directly with a cotton swab into the rosette; treat with insecticidal soap and repeat weekly until no signs remain

Faint webbing across the rosette and silvery stippling on leaf surfaces; leaves may look dusty or bleached Rinse the rosette gently, then spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; avoid misting which can encourage fungal issues, treat every 5–7 days

Soft-bodied insects on new growth at the rosette centre; leaves curl slightly and may become sticky with honeydew Blast off with a gentle stream of water; follow up with insecticidal soap spray; a single treatment is usually sufficient for light infestations