How to Identify Spotted Lanternfly and What to Do
Spotted lanternfly has spread to over a dozen states and threatens hardwoods, fruit trees, and vineyards. Here is how to identify and report this invasive pest.
What Is Spotted Lanternfly?
Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive planthopper native to China, India, and Vietnam. First detected in Berks County, Pennsylvania in 2014, it has since spread to more than a dozen states across the eastern United States. This pest feeds on the sap of over 70 plant species and poses a serious threat to agriculture, hardwood forests, and the nursery industry.
Identifying Spotted Lanternfly at Every Life Stage
Use our tree identification tool to determine which host trees you have, then look for these signs. Knowing what to look for at each stage is essential:
- Egg masses (September-June): Grayish-brown, mud-like coverings on smooth surfaces including tree trunks, outdoor furniture, vehicles, and stone. Each mass contains 30-50 eggs.
- Early nymphs (April-July): Small, black with white spots, roughly 1/4 inch long
- Late nymphs (July-September): Red with white spots and black stripes, about 1/2 inch long
- Adults (July-December): About 1 inch long with grayish wings spotted with black dots. When wings are open, they reveal a striking red underwing with black spots
Preferred Host Trees
While spotted lanternfly feeds on many plants, it strongly prefers:
- Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) - the primary host and breeding tree
- Maples - red, silver, and sugar maple
- Black walnut
- Birch and willow
- Grape vines - causes significant economic damage to vineyards
- Apple and stone fruit trees
Damage and Impact
Spotted lanternfly causes damage in several ways:
- Feeding weakens trees and reduces their ability to photosynthesize
- Heavy infestations can kill young trees and vines
- They excrete large amounts of honeydew, a sticky substance that promotes sooty mold growth
- Sooty mold blocks sunlight and further stresses plants
- The honeydew attracts wasps, hornets, and ants creating nuisance issues
What to Do If You Find Spotted Lanternfly
- Take a photo for identification confirmation
- Report it to your state department of agriculture, especially if you are outside known infested areas
- Destroy egg masses by scraping them into a container of rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer
- Use circle traps wrapped around tree trunks to catch nymphs
- Remove tree of heaven from your property with proper herbicide treatment to eliminate breeding habitat
- Check your vehicle before traveling from infested areas to avoid spreading them
If you live in a quarantine zone, follow all regulations about moving outdoor items, vehicles, and plant material. Report sightings through your state's reporting tool or through TreeIssues. Find a certified arborist in your area for help managing infestations.