Boxwood Leaftier Moth
Common NameBoxwood Leaftier Moth
Scientific NameCydalima perspectalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, white
HabitatGardens, parks, cultivated areas, and forests where boxwood plants are present.
Geographic RangeNative to East Asia (China, Japan, Korea, India, Russian Far East); invasive in Europe, North America, and parts of Western Asia.
Host PlantsBuxus sempervirens, Buxus microphylla, Buxus sinica
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with black stripes and spots, feeding voraciously on boxwood leaves. They pupate in a silken cocoon on the host plant, with multiple generations occurring annually.
Identification TipsLook for the specific reddish-brown coloration combined with the two distinct white patches on the forewings, especially the one at the tornus. Often found near or on boxwood plants.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with predominantly reddish-brown forewings, characterized by a distinct white patch at the base of the costa and another prominent white patch at the tornus.
