Western tentiform leafminer
Phyllonorycter elmaella
1 host plant
Last updated
Tentiform leafminer larvae create distinctive grayish, tent-like folds in the leaves of flowering plum (Prunus cerasifera) and other stone fruits. The larvae feed inside the mine, leaving transparent brown patches visible on both leaf surfaces. Initial damage appears by early June; heavy infestations cause yellowing and leaf drop.
This is a cosmetic pest on landscape trees. Prune off infested leaves by early July to reduce adult emergence and improve tree appearance. Natural parasitoids suppress populations year to year; do not use pesticides. Maintain adequate irrigation and avoid drought stress, which predisposes trees to secondary damage. Most mature trees tolerate leafminer damage with minimal impact on growth.
Quick Reference
Adult moths are about 0.12 inch in length. The wings are held roof-like over the body and are golden bronze with white bands. Eggs are flat, translucent, and laid on the undersides of leaves. The larvae vary in appearance depending on their age, as they progress through five instars. Young larvae are legless and cream-colored. Older instars have legs and are cylindrical in shape, cream-colored and about 0.12 inch in length. Mature larvae are yellow and about 0.18 inch in length. The larvae feed...