Description

Adult

Wingspan of 14-24 mm. Forewings light-ochre to reddish brown often with a darker band towards the distal edge. Hindwings greyish-white.

Larvae

Late instars reach 17.5 mm in length. Body green to yellowish-green with darker line on dorsal surface and two lateral yellow lines. Head and prothoracic plate yellow brown with extensive shading and mottling. Anal comb present with 6-9 teeth.

Eggs

Pale green, laid in batches that measure 10-15 mm in width, on the upper surfaces of leaves.

Distribution

South Africa, Kenya, Madagascar and southern Europe.

Economic Host(s)

Cultivated flowers and vines.

Symptoms/Signs

Larvae mine stems and leaves (depending on host) and perforate flower buds. Young leaves wilt when attacked and petals are often woven together by silk. Greenish coloured frass can be seen in and around damaged stems.

Generations:

4-6