Some scales are hemispherical in shape, while others are oval and flat. Scale insects feed on plant sap sucked thorough a slender stylet that remains inserted constantly into the plant tissue. Sap loss may cause poor, stunted growth. Death of infested plants is possible in severe cases. More commonly noticed than the scales is the large quantity of a sweet sticky liquid called honeydew that is excreted by the scale insects.
Honeydew can make a sticky, shiny mess on the plant and nearby furniture and floors.
A black fungus called sooty mold may grow on the honeydew. Scale insects are often difficult to control. There are several well-known remedies that can be tried in an attempt to eliminate scales from a houseplant. However, there is no easy, simple cure for a scale infestation. This is a laborious task that works only on small, large-leafed plants.