Lilac Leafminer Moth
Common NameLilac Leafminer Moth
Scientific NameGracillaria syringella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyGracillariinae
Wingspan (mm)11.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, North America (introduced), parts of Asia
Host PlantsSyringa (lilac), Ligustrum (privet), Fraxinus (ash), Forsythia
Flight PeriodMay to June (first generation), July to August (second generation)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic blotch mines on the leaves of host plants. They pupate either within the mine or in a silken cocoon on the leaf surface. There are typically two generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the unique angled resting posture, and the detailed brown, white, and black striped pattern on its forewings. The presence of blotch mines on lilac or privet leaves is a strong indicator.
Description
A very small, slender moth with a distinctive resting posture, holding its body at an angle with the head slightly raised. Its forewings are intricately patterned with longitudinal streaks and patches of brown, white, and black.
