Elephant Ear White Powder: Scale or Mealybug Treatment

Identification

White powdery substance at base and on leaves of elephant ear (Alocasia/Colocasia) in Florida, possibly with larvae visible.

Likely Pests

• Scale insects (armored or soft)
• Mealybugs

Both appear as white, waxy deposits; mealybugs look more cottony.

Treatment

1. Spray thoroughly with insecticidal soap OR horticultural oil.
2. Repeat weekly for 3–4 weeks.
3. Elephant ears are resilient; they recover quickly.

Prevention

Inspect new plants, avoid over-fertilizing (excess nitrogen attracts sucking insects), and hose off foliage periodically.