PestMedium Severity

Mimosa Webworm

Homadaula anisocentra

An introduced pest from China that feeds primarily on mimosa and honeylocust trees, creating characteristic webs around foliage. First reported in Washington D.C. in the 1940s, this pest can cause complete defoliation by early September if left untreated.

Peak Season: First generation: Early summer, small numbers, easily overlookedSecond generation: Mid to late summer, much larger and more damagingEgg laying: Adults lay eggs back into first-generation webbingPupation sites: Under loose bark, building siding, especially near heated structuresOverwintering: As pupae in protected locations
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Mimosa webworm larvae and webbing damage on mimosa tree foliage

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Silvery appearance of leaflets from initial feeding damage
Brown, dried areas as damage progresses
Webbing around 2-3 leaflets (first generation)
Extensive webbing around 2-6 compound leaves (second generation)
Skeletonized foliage within webs
Complete defoliation possible by early September
Active larvae dropping on silk strands when disturbed

Potential Damage

Progressive defoliation reducing photosynthetic capacity
Complete tree defoliation in severe untreated infestations
Aesthetic damage from extensive webbing
Tree stress and weakening from repeated defoliation
Nuisance factor from larvae entering buildings
Economic losses in landscape plantings

Lifecycle

Two generations per year with the second being larger and more damaging. First generation webs 2-3 leaflets, second generation webs 2-6 compound leaves. Pupation occurs in protected areas like loose bark and building siding. Warm temperatures around heated buildings increase survival.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Imicide applications targeting early larval stages for maximum effectiveness

2

First generation control to reduce more damaging second generation

3

Time treatments before extensive webbing develops

4

Monitor for early generation activity to time interventions

5

Systemic Imisol treatments for season-long protection

Recommended Mauget Products

Imicide

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against mimosa webworm.

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Imisol

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against mimosa webworm.

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