Cottonwood Leaf Beetle: Identifying Characteristics
Identifying the injury:
Leaves in the upper portions (terminal) branches of cottonwood and willow trees first appear to be skeletonized (due to larval feeding). Later, leaves become ragged or are completely consumed leaving only petioles. Severe adult infestations can result in damage to young shoot tips and buds.
Identifying the insect:
Adult beetles are about 6 mm long and light-yellow with black stripes/spots on the wing covers. Larvae are blackish with two yellow spots on each side.
Susceptible trees:
The cottonwood leaf beetle can attack virtually any cottonwood/poplar (Populus spp.) or willow species. (Salix spp.)