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Spotted lanternflys on a tree limb

Spotted Lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive plant hopper native to China. It likely arrived in North America hidden on goods imported from Asia.

The stages of growth of a spotted lanternfly from egg to adult.

Juvenile spotted lanternflies, known as nymphs, and adults prefer to feed on the invasive tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima), but also feed on a wide range of crops and plants, including grapes, apples, hops, walnuts and hardwood trees. The insects suck sap from stems and branches which can weaken and damage the plant. This feeding also leaves behind a sticky, sugary residue called honeydew that attracts other insects and promotes the growth of sooty mold, which can further damage the plant.

 

How spotted lanternfly egg masses present


Impacts

The spotted lanternfly causes serious damage including oozing sap, wilting, leaf curling and dieback in trees, vines, crops and many other types of plants. When spotted lanternflies feed, they excrete a sugary substance, called honeydew, that encourages the growth of black sooty mold. This mold is harmless to people, but causes damage to plants.

In counties infested and quarantined for spotted lanternfly, residents report hundreds of the lanternfly affect their quality of life and ability to enjoy the outdoors during the spring and summer months. Spotted lanternflies will cover trees, swarm in the air, and their honeydew can coat decks and play equipment.

 

Chart of which tree species the spotted lanternfly effect in which month of the year.




Current Location

Map of the spread of spotted lanternfly in the U.S.