Dogwood sawflies are leaf-feeding insects that primarily attack dogwood trees and shrubs. Although they resemble caterpillars, they are actually the larval stage of a sawfly, a type of wasp belonging to the order Hymenoptera. Heavy infestations of dogwood sawflies can strip leaves from ornamental dogwood plants, leaving them weakened and less attractive in landscapes and gardens.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Macremphytus tarsatus
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Host Plants: Dogwood trees and shrubs
- Diet: Leaves
- Status: Landscape pest
Identification
Dogwood sawfly larvae change appearance as they grow. Young larvae are pale yellow and often coated with a waxy white powder that makes them resemble bird droppings. As they mature, they develop darker markings and may reach about one inch in length.
Adults resemble small black wasps and are rarely noticed by homeowners.
Distribution
Dogwood sawflies occur throughout eastern North America wherever ornamental dogwood trees are grown. Landscapes with flowering dogwood trees are particularly susceptible to infestations.
Life Cycle
Adult sawflies lay eggs on the underside of dogwood leaves. After hatching, larvae feed on foliage for several weeks before dropping to the soil to pupate. Adults emerge the following season to repeat the cycle.
Pest Status
Large groups of larvae can quickly skeletonize leaves, leaving only the veins behind. Although healthy trees usually recover, repeated infestations may weaken plants over time.
Prevention
- Inspect leaves for clusters of feeding larvae
- Remove heavily infested leaves
- Encourage natural predators
Control
Hand removal and early detection are often sufficient for managing dogwood sawfly populations in residential landscapes.