Source:  NCDA&CS, 5/20/21


You won’t like the spotted lanternfly if you like to sit under the shade of trees, enjoy fruits such as apples, sip wine or work in the garden. The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect from Asia that attacks numerous plants. It was first detected in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has become an extreme annoyance. In 2018, this pest was spotted in Virginia. Its bright colors and unique pattern may be beautiful, but the damage and nuisance are anything but!

The spotted lanternfly is documented to feed on 103 plant types worldwide! Its favorite is the invasive tree of heaven, which appears to support spread of the pest. Spotted lanternfly also attacks hardwoods and woody vines like maples, fruit trees, grapevines and hops. As a result of its feeding habits, it is a threat to the grape, fruit tree and plant nursery industries. Infested vineyards have documented as much as a 90% reduction in grape yields due to this pest.

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