Scientific name: Stephanitis pyrioides
Description
Azalea lace bug are sap-sucking insects that gather and feed on the underside of the leaf effecting azaleas and rhododendrons. Brown sticky spots of excreta can be seen on the underside of the leaf when they are actively feeding. They are active and causing damage during spring and summer. Damage can be identified by a fine mottled, silver appearance on the upper surface of the leaf. If these insects are not treated the leaves will remain quite unattractive and mottled until the new growth grows. The nymphs are a light brown colour, with adults growing to 4 mm in length and black with shiny lace-like wings.