The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive pest that has been making headlines as it spreads across the eastern U.S. Originally from Asia, it poses a significant threat to trees and plants commonly found in both residential and commercial landscapes. While it has not yet been found in widespread populations in North Carolina, a few sightings have occurred, and early detection is key to protecting our outdoor environments.
What to Look For
Adult Spotted Lanternflies are about an inch long, with gray wings speckled in black and bright red underwings visible when they fly. Immature stages (nymphs) begin as black with white spots, later turning red with black and white patches.
These pests are often found on the trunks and branches of trees or large shrubs—especially Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), a known host plant—but they also feed on maples, birches, walnuts, willows, and many ornamental trees commonly used in landscapes.
Why It Matters for Landscapes
Spotted Lanternflies feed by piercing the bark and stems of plants and sucking out sap. This weakens the plant, leaving it vulnerable to disease and environmental stress. In addition, the insects excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can coat leaves, hardscapes, and outdoor furniture. This residue promotes the growth of black sooty mold and creates a mess that’s hard to ignore.
Over time, repeated infestations can:
Reduce the health and appearance of landscape trees and shrubs
Lead to dieback or plant decline
Create maintenance challenges due to honeydew and mold
Attract additional insect pests
What to Do If You See One
If you suspect Spotted Lanternflies are present in your landscape:
Take a clear photo for documentation.
Collect a sample if possible (seal it in a bag or container).
Report it immediately to the NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services or your local Cooperative Extension office.
➤ NCDA&CS Reporting Tool
https://apps.ncagr.gov/AgRSysPortalV2/plantprotection/Spottedfly-Lantern-Report
Do not attempt to move infested plants or materials off-site, as this can contribute to the pest’s spread.
Stay Aware
While Spotted Lanternflies have not yet become widespread in North Carolina, they could pose a serious threat to the health and beauty of our landscapes. If you manage or maintain a property and suspect unusual insect activity, our team is here to help identify and manage potential threats.
Early Detection Is Critical for Protecting Triangle Landscapes
Invasive pests like the Spotted Lanternfly can cause serious long-term damage to trees and ornamental plants if they go unnoticed. While widespread infestations have not yet taken hold in North Carolina, early sightings reinforce the importance of awareness and proactive monitoring.
Tree health issues caused by sap-feeding insects often develop quietly. Decline may not be obvious until stress, dieback, or secondary problems appear. Understanding what to look for and responding quickly can help protect the structure, appearance, and longevity of your landscape.
Our team works with property owners throughout Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the surrounding Triangle to identify plant health concerns and support long-term landscape resilience.
If you notice unusual insect activity, declining trees, or sticky residue on plants or hardscapes, a professional evaluation can help determine the cause and guide next steps.
👉 Schedule a Landscape Health Evaluation
Serving Homeowners Across the Triangle
If you’re in Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill and need expert help with landscaping, hardscaping, or outdoor construction, Myatt Landscaping and Construction is here to help.
From custom patios and retaining walls to full outdoor design-build projects, our local team has served the Triangle area for more than 25 years.
📍 Myatt Landscaping and Construction
217 Technology Park Ln, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526
☎ (919) 577-6050
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Spotted Lanternfly?
The Spotted Lanternfly is an invasive insect that feeds on the sap of trees and plants. It weakens host plants over time and produces honeydew, a sticky residue that can lead to mold growth and additional maintenance issues.
Have Spotted Lanternflies been found in the Triangle?
While they have not been found in widespread populations in the Triangle, a small number of sightings have occurred in North Carolina. Monitoring and early reporting are important to limit potential spread.
Which plants are most at risk from Spotted Lanternflies?
Spotted Lanternflies commonly feed on Tree-of-Heaven, but they also affect maples, birches, walnuts, willows, and other ornamental trees often found in residential and commercial landscapes.
What damage do Spotted Lanternflies cause to landscapes?
Repeated feeding weakens trees and shrubs, increases vulnerability to disease, and results in sticky honeydew buildup. This residue can coat leaves, patios, walkways, and outdoor furniture, promoting black sooty mold.
What should homeowners do if they suspect a Spotted Lanternfly?
Homeowners should document the sighting with a photo, collect a sample if possible, and report it to the NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services or their local Cooperative Extension office. Infested materials should not be moved.
Can early action help protect trees and landscapes?
Yes. Early identification and reporting help prevent further spread and reduce long-term damage. Monitoring tree health and responding to unusual insect activity are key parts of proactive landscape care.
How can professional landscape monitoring help?
Professional landscape teams are trained to recognize early signs of pest activity and plant stress. Ongoing monitoring supports quicker response, healthier plants, and more resilient landscapes.