Can I just wash the plant in the shower?

Yes, a gentle shower is a great way to knock off a large number of mites. Make sure to cover the soil with a plastic bag first so you do not overwater.

Will these pests spread to my other plants?

Absolutely. Spider mites travel easily, so isolate your philodendron immediately until the infestation is cleared.

Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny moving specks.
Look for fine webbing between the stems.
Check if the leaves have small yellow or white dots.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You will see fine webbing between leaf stems and tiny yellow stippling on the leaf surface. Look closely at the underside of the leaves for tiny moving specks.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites. Spray the entire plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until the pests are gone.
Low Humidity
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks stressed and the air in your home feels very dry. Mites thrive in these conditions.
What to do: Increase humidity by grouping plants together or using a humidifier. Mist the leaves occasionally to discourage mites from settling in.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum

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 webbing covers the entire plant and leaves are turning yellow, the infestation is severe. A few mites are manageable, but do not wait to treat them.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with consistent watering and wipe the leaves with a damp cloth once a month to remove dust and potential pests.

Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum 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

Can I just wash the plant in the shower?: Yes, a gentle shower is a great way to knock off a large number of mites. Make sure to cover the soil with a plastic bag first so you do not overwater.
Will these pests spread to my other plants?: Absolutely. Spider mites travel easily, so isolate your philodendron immediately until the infestation is cleared.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why are there tiny webs on my split leaf philodendron?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum?