I recently came across a pest that was new for me: Yucca Bugs. They are not a pest to trees, but they will affect a pretty popular landscape plant—yucca. These particular plants were Adam’s Needle (Yucca filamentosa), a native, hardy, low-growing shrub with sword-like leaves. In the spring they produce a tall stalk full of beautiful white flowers.
The infestation I came across was pretty severe and affected all 20-something plants being used as a ground cover and foundation planting. Aside from the plants looking wilted and yellowing—and the fact that I could see thousands of these bugs—the landscape design itself actually looked quite nice.
What Yucca Bugs Look Like
The bugs (Halticotoma valida) are pretty small, with a reddish head and thorax and black wings. The nymphs are fully reddish and haven’t grown their wings yet. They somewhat resemble a tiny stink bug.
Yucca bugs have piercing and sucking mouthparts and will feed on plant fluids, causing wilting and yellowing. In severe cases, they can kill the plant.
Their Life Cycle and Timing
Yucca bugs are multi-generational, meaning several new generations can occur in a single year. They lay their eggs inside the leaf itself and will also overwinter in the leaf.
I came across this infestation in mid-November and could see both nymphs and adult Yucca Bugs. Adults can even be present into December.
Can Yucca Bugs Be Treated?
Yes—yucca bugs are something we are capable of treating.
If you or someone you know has yucca plants that are starting to look stressed, wilted, yellow, or otherwise off, have us out to take a look. We can determine whether yucca bugs are present and put together the best treatment plan for your landscape.
At Truetimber Arborists, we believe healthy relationships—with customers, crews, and the natural world—create the best outcomes. Our Richmond-based team brings safe, professional plant and tree care that protects your property and preserves your landscape.
Ready for a free, no-pressure estimate? Contact us today at 804-218-8733 or schedule online.
