Spittlebug Foam on Pittosporum: Harmless but Check Watering

White Frothy Globs = Spittlebug Nymphs

The “marshmallow” fluid on your Pittosporum branches is the protective foam of two-lined spittlebug nymphs. They feed on xylem sap but rarely cause serious damage to established shrubs.

Simple Management

• Wipe off the foam with a paper towel if it bothers you.
• No insecticide needed unless populations are huge.

The Real Issue: Brown Leaves

Leaf browning points to a separate problem—likely watering stress (too much or too little) or trunk injury. Check soil moisture and inspect the bark for damage.