Other Common Names
Herb Leafhopper, Tree Mallow Hopper, Chrysanthemum Leafhopper
Explanation of Names
Eupteryx melissae Curtis 1837
Identification
Adults whitish green with dark markings; nymphs are creamy white
Range
native to w. Palaearctic, adventive and now widespread in e. & w. NA
(2) [found anywhere in the US where herbs are grown
(3)]
Season
adults May-Oct (may overwinter) in the UK
(1); may remain active throughout the year in sheltered situations
Food
hosts include lavender, mints, oregano, marjoram, rosemary, basil, thyme, sage, lemon balm and Phlomis
Life Cycle
several generations during the summer; usually overwinters as eggs on host plants
Remarks
earliest NA record: CA 1903
(4)
Lacewings and
Macrolophus prey on nymphs; egg parasitoid wasp
Anagrus atomus and nematode
Steinernema feltiae that infects nymphs are used for control*