What's eating my zanzibar croton?

Zanzibar Croton's narrow, strap-like variegated leaves are susceptible to spider mites and thrips, which are drawn to the long leaf surface area. Mealybugs cluster at the base where the slender leaves join the stem. As with all crotons, dry indoor air is the primary risk factor that should be addressed before pest problems develop.

Silvery or pale stippling running along the narrow leaf blades; webbing on undersides when populations are high Increase humidity; spray insecticidal soap or neem oil solution covering both leaf surfaces; repeat every 5–7 days for 3–4 weeks

Silver streaks or papery scarring along the narrow leaves; tiny dark frass visible; distorted or curled new leaves Remove infested leaves; apply spinosad or insecticidal soap spray to all surfaces weekly; use blue sticky traps to monitor

White fluffy deposits at the base of the leaf clusters and along stems; yellowing and loss of leaf luster Swab colonies with rubbing alcohol; follow with full-plant neem oil application; repeat weekly until resolved