New Zealand flax mealybugs, Balancoccus diminutus, are named for their habit of infesting New Zealand flax root systems as well as the above ground parts of plants. This infestation was found on Phormium 'Dusky Chief'.
Resources:
idtools.org. Balanococcus diminutus. Scale Insects.
Original version: <24 October 2006)
Last update <10 January 2017>
Author: R.L. Rosetta, Extension Nursery Integrated Pest Management, Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University/NWREC.
New Zealand flax mealybugs eggs in wax.
Photo: Rosetta
New Zealand flax mealybug infestation on Phormium
New Zealand flax mealybugs at base of Phormium
Waxy deposits of ground mealybug on Phormium closeup