Redbud Leaftier

Participants in the OGIA/OSU Greater Cincinnati BYGL! Diagnostic Walkabout held this past Monday at the Boone County Arboretum observed the unusual damage caused by the Redbud Leaffolder (Fascista cercerisella, family Gelechiidae) on its namesake host (Cercis canadensis). Populations of this native moth appear to be sporadic and highly localized in Ohio this season.

The unusual damage caused by first-generation Redbud Leaffolders on their namesake host is becoming evident in southwest Ohio. Thus far, populations of this native moth appear to be sporadic and highly localized. However, population densities and distribution may change with the appearances of the second and third generations.

The unusual damage caused by the Redbud Leaffolder on its namesake host is becoming evident as caterpillars develop through the final generation this season. Populations are sporadic and highly localized with the most dramatic damage appearing on weeping redbuds.