The Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is a non-native invasive insect found in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Virginia and West Virginia. If it spreads to New Hampshire it could harm hardwood trees, forests and landscapes and agriculture. Be on the alert and report suspect spotted lanternfly.
Richard Gardner, Bugwood.org
Spotted lanternfly background and risks
It spends its lifetime sucking plant sap from a wide range of host plants, but it prefers Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). Spotted lanternflies tend to congregate together. This mass feeding causes plant stress and decline. We are still learning about risks to plant health. Grapes and hops will likely be harmed, with potential negative impacts to other landscape and ornamental plants, fruit trees, and hardwoods. Feeding by spotted lanternfly results in build-up of sticky excreta which attracts wasps and other insects and causes black sooty molds.
Tree of heaven is a preferred host for spotted lanternfly
Tree of Heaven is a prohibited invasive plant in New Hampshire.
Managing Tree of Heaven can reduce spotted lanternfly establishment and distribution by:
- Using it to monitor for spotted lanternfly.
- Treating with insecticides to control spotted lanternfly.
- Treating with herbicides to reduce proliferation of spotted lanternfly.
Report Tree of Heaven sightings to EDDMapS. Reports will be confirmed by the NH Dept. of Agriculture, Markets and Food.
Spotted Lanternfly Identification
Life Stages
Spotted lanternfly goes through several life stages in a single year. All life stages of spotted lanternfly have distinct appearances and are easily moved. Report suspect spotted lanternflies. Photos can be submitted through this site.
If possible, place the sample in the freezer for verification.
Tree of Heaven Identification
