Pest identification
What's eating my singapore plumeria?
Frangipani caterpillar (Pseudosphinx tetrio)
Signs: Rapid defoliation; large striped larvae on bare stems; black frass pellets on the ground below.
Control: Hand-pick daily; apply Bt; for severe defoliation use a registered contact insecticide as a last resort.
Mealybugs
Signs: Fluffy white wax in leaf axils; honeydew; sooty mold; weakened new shoots.
Control: Dab with alcohol swab; neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; introduce Cryptolaemus predators.
Scale insects
Signs: Hard or soft shell-like bumps on stems and branches; yellowing foliage; reduced flowering.
Control: Scrape off manually; apply horticultural oil; repeat treatment every 2–3 weeks until clear.
Keep singapore plumeria pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Singapore Plumeria pests — FAQ
What is eating my singapore plumeria?
Singapore Plumeria (Plumeria obtusa) faces the same core threats as other plumerias: the frangipani caterpillar can defoliate plants rapidly, while mealybugs and scale insects settle into stem crevices and joints. Frangipani rust may also appear in humid climates. Its evergreen habit means year-round pest monitoring is needed.
How do I get rid of frangipani caterpillar (pseudosphinx tetrio) on singapore plumeria?
Rapid defoliation; large striped larvae on bare stems; black frass pellets on the ground below. Hand-pick daily; apply Bt; for severe defoliation use a registered contact insecticide as a last resort.
How do I get rid of mealybugs on singapore plumeria?
Fluffy white wax in leaf axils; honeydew; sooty mold; weakened new shoots. Dab with alcohol swab; neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; introduce Cryptolaemus predators.
How do I get rid of scale insects on singapore plumeria?
Hard or soft shell-like bumps on stems and branches; yellowing foliage; reduced flowering. Scrape off manually; apply horticultural oil; repeat treatment every 2–3 weeks until clear.