Pulvinaria floccifera

Cottony camellia scale

Description

Pulvinaria floccifera, commonly known as the cottony camellia scale, is a sap-sucking insect that infests a wide range of evergreen shrubs and trees. This polyphagous pest targets plants such as camellias (Camellia spp.), hollies (Ilex spp.), and yews (Taxus spp.). It overwinters as immature stages on twigs and leaf undersides and completes one generation per year. In early summer, females produce elongated white, fluffy ovisacs containing up to 1,000 eggs, which remain visible even after the females die. Crawlers hatch from these ovisacs and disperse to feed on leaves.

Infestations result in honeydew secretion, promoting the growth of black sooty mold that reduces photosynthetic efficiency and significantly diminishes the aesthetic value of infested plants. Heavy infestations may lead to foliage discoloration, dieback, and premature leaf drop. Native to Asia, Pulvinaria floccifera has spread widely across Europe, thriving in gardens, parks, and urban landscapes.

Symptom

On the undersides of leaves, white, fluffy ovisacs and honeydew deposits are visible. Leaves may appear discolored, sticky, and covered with black sooty mold. Twig dieback may occur in severe cases. Similar to the sepcies Pulvinaria regalis.

Tree Species: Spotted laurel, Spindle, Holly, Citrus, Barberry, Japanese camellia, Mahonia, Olive, Rhododendron, Japanese skimmia, Yew, Bay laurel, Cherry laurel

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle, Branch

Pest significance: Harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: Yes

Present in EU: Yes