What's eating my variable zamia?

Variable Zamia (Zamia polymorpha) in tropical or indoor cultivation is most troubled by scale insects, which exploit the firm leaflets and stems. Mealybugs and spider mites are secondary threats in warm, dry conditions. This cycad's tough foliage can mask early infestations, so check stems and the undersides of fronds closely.

Armored or soft bumps on stems, petioles, and leaflet undersides; yellowing and reduced vigor. Brush off manually, apply horticultural or neem oil, and repeat every 7–10 days; isolate affected plants from the rest of the collection.

Cottony white colonies in leaf axils; honeydew and sooty mold follow heavy infestations. Target colonies with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs; spray insecticidal soap solution weekly until no bugs are visible for two cycles.

Fine webbing and pale stippling on leaflets, worsened by low humidity and dry air. Raise ambient humidity, rinse foliage thoroughly, and apply neem oil or miticide spray every 5–7 days.