Growli

Pest identification

What's eating my zz plant raven?

Spider mites

Signs: Pale stippling or dull patches on glossy dark leaves; fine webbing in severe cases — damage is especially visible against the deep purple-black foliage

Control: Wipe leaves with a damp microfibre cloth; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; improve airflow and reduce heating dryness

Scale insects

Signs: Small tan or brown flat bumps along leaf midribs and stems; leaves lose sheen and yellow over time

Control: Scrape off scales with a soft toothbrush; treat with horticultural oil or isopropyl alcohol; monitor monthly

Fungus gnats

Signs: Adult gnats flying around wet soil; larvae damage the shallow fibrous roots and rhizomes in overwatered mix

Control: Let soil dry completely between waterings — ZZ naturally tolerates drought; use yellow sticky traps; apply Bti drench if larvae confirmed

Keep zz plant raven pest-free

Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:

ZZ Plant Raven pests — FAQ

What is eating my zz plant raven?

ZZ Plant Raven's dark, glossy leaves and waxy cuticle make it one of the most pest-resistant houseplants. Spider mites and scale insects are the most realistic threats, particularly in warm, dry homes. Fungus gnats appear when soil is kept too wet. Overall, expect very few pest problems if you keep this plant appropriately dry.

How do I get rid of spider mites on zz plant raven?

Pale stippling or dull patches on glossy dark leaves; fine webbing in severe cases — damage is especially visible against the deep purple-black foliage Wipe leaves with a damp microfibre cloth; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; improve airflow and reduce heating dryness

How do I get rid of scale insects on zz plant raven?

Small tan or brown flat bumps along leaf midribs and stems; leaves lose sheen and yellow over time Scrape off scales with a soft toothbrush; treat with horticultural oil or isopropyl alcohol; monitor monthly

How do I get rid of fungus gnats on zz plant raven?

Adult gnats flying around wet soil; larvae damage the shallow fibrous roots and rhizomes in overwatered mix Let soil dry completely between waterings — ZZ naturally tolerates drought; use yellow sticky traps; apply Bti drench if larvae confirmed