cyclamen mite infestation on African Violet
Quick answer
If your African Violet has cyclamen mite infestation, the most likely cause is: Cyclamen mites are extremely small mites that inhabit protected young leaves, buds, and flowers. On African violets, supported symptoms include severe stunting and small, cupped, distorted leaves in the crown; the mites can be overlooked because they require high magnification to see.
Start here:
- 1. Use the characteristic damage pattern for a practical diagnosis: inspect the crown for small, cupped, distorted or hairy young leaves and severe stunting.
- 2. Discard an affected African violet. Current University of Minnesota and UF/IFAS guidance identifies disposal as the practical management choice for home growers.
Why African Violet gets cyclamen mite infestation
Cyclamen mites are extremely small mites that inhabit protected young leaves, buds, and flowers. On African violets, supported symptoms include severe stunting and small, cupped, distorted leaves in the crown; the mites can be overlooked because they require high magnification to see.
How to reverse cyclamen mite infestation on African Violet
- 1
Use the characteristic damage pattern for a practical diagnosis: inspect the crown for small, cupped, distorted or hairy young leaves and severe stunting.
- 2
Discard an affected African violet. Current University of Minnesota and UF/IFAS guidance identifies disposal as the practical management choice for home growers.
- 3
Do not substitute a legacy home pesticide schedule. Minnesota Extension states that pesticides and other methods are not practical options for cyclamen-mite infestations.
- 4
Inspect nearby African violets for the same crown symptoms because UF/IFAS reports spread through routine plant handling, drafts, and close plant proximity.
Keep cyclamen mite infestation off this African Violet
Inspect incoming African violets for distorted crown growth before placing them near a collection. Reduce cross-contamination during routine handling and keep symptomatic plants away from close plant contact until they are discarded.