Are these pests harmful?

They can be if they eat too much of the foliage. They mostly target the succulent leaves.

Should I use chemicals?

It is better to use manual removal or traps first. Chemicals can be harsh on this delicate plant.

Opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for slimy trails on the leaves.
Check under the leaves during the evening.
Inspect the soil around the base of the plant.

Likely causes

Slug and Snail Damage
Most likely
How to tell: You see irregular holes in the leaves or slimy trails on the foliage.
What to do: Pick the pests off by hand in the evening when they are active. You can also place a shallow dish of beer near the plant to trap them.
Overcrowding
Possible
How to tell: The plants are packed too tightly, creating a damp habitat that attracts pests.
What to do: Thin out the plants to improve airflow. This makes the area less inviting for slugs and snails.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the damage is extensive and the plant is losing too much leaf area, it will struggle to grow. A few small holes are usually just a minor nuisance.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area clear of debris where slugs hide and maintain good spacing between plants.

Opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Are these pests harmful?: They can be if they eat too much of the foliage. They mostly target the succulent leaves.
Should I use chemicals?: It is better to use manual removal or traps first. Chemicals can be harsh on this delicate plant.

Guides to these causes

Slugs and Snails

Why does my Opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage have holes?