Quick Facts about Spotted Lanternfly

  • The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive insect that poses a threat to over 70 different plant species, including some fruit trees, vines, and ornamental plants. The SLF is spreading in Virginia and is already present in Western and Northern VA
  • The preferred host plant of the SLF is Ailanthus altissima, otherwise known as Tree of Heaven.
    Tree of Heaven removal is a recommended practice to slow the spread of the SLF.
  • SLF infestation can be mitigated through physical destruction or other control

SLF can build up to great numbers in urban and rural areas. This photo demonstrates how SLF nymphs often appear in groups.

YOUR ASSISTANCE IS REQUESTED TO PROMPTLY REPORT SIGHTINGS PHOTOS REQUIRED. Your reporting will aid in identification and tracking movement of the spotted lanternfly within Virginia. Make a report using the link below.

Report a Spotted Lanternfly

To help with identification, below are the four life cycle stages of the spotted lanternfly. 

Photo credits left to right: E. Swackhammer, Dalton Ludwick, Dalton Ludwick, Getty Images

spotted lanternfly egg mass, tree bark
hatched nymph spotted lanterfly
developed nymph, spotted lanternfly
adult lanterfly with wings spread

Your Cooperative Extension Office can assist you in your efforts to control the spotted lanternfly in the event it appears in your yard.

For more information, visit https://mgnv.org/resources/spotted-lanternfly/

For more help, please contact the Extension MG Help Desk at 703-228-6414, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. through 12 p.m., with any questions. THANK YOU!

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