Elderberry Panax Leaf Roller
Common NameElderberry Panax Leaf Roller
Scientific NameAcleris albicomana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream
HabitatWoodlands, forests, shrubby areas where host plants are present
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas)
Host Plantselderberry (Sambucus), ginseng (Panax), maple (Acer), birch (Betula), oak (Quercus)
Flight PeriodMay to September (often bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf rollers, feeding and pupating within the rolled leaves of their various host plants, including elderberry and ginseng.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic mottled brown and grey forewing pattern with a somewhat squared-off appearance, typical of the genus Acleris. Its association with elderberry and ginseng can also be a clue.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled forewings displaying shades of brown, grey, and cream, often with darker bands and wavy lines that provide excellent camouflage.
