What's eating my streptocarpus 'black panther'?

Streptocarpus 'Black Panther' is a rich dark-flowered indoor gesneriad sharing the genus's main pest risks. Vine weevil larvae cause silent root destruction — the first sign is sudden wilting. Mealybugs and aphids target the soft foliage and flower stems. Preventive nematode treatments and careful watering practices are essential for long-term health.

Larvae hollow out roots and the crown base; plant wilts and collapses despite adequate watering Drench soil with pathogenic nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) in late summer and early spring; repot annually to check for grubs

Cottony white masses in leaf folds and at stem base; foliage becomes sticky and growth slows Dab colonies with alcohol swab; spray whole plant with neem oil solution weekly; quarantine affected plant

Soft-bodied insects clustered on new growth and flower stems; petals distort; honeydew attracts mold Remove by hand or water jet; apply insecticidal soap spray; repeat every 5–7 days until resolved