Rhododendron-specialist
Guides
Caloptilia azaleella
Azalea Leafminer Moth, azalea leaf miner
Caloptilia azaleella is a small moth in the family Gracillariidae, commonly known as the azalea leaf miner. Native to Japan, it has been introduced globally through the horticultural trade of azalea plants and is now established in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand. The species is a specialist herbivore whose larvae mine and roll leaves of Rhododendron species. It is frequently encountered in gardens, greenhouses, and sheltered urban plantings.
Tupiocoris rhododendri
Tupiocoris rhododendri is a plant-feeding mirid bug native to North America and introduced to parts of Europe. It is strongly associated with rhododendron plants, on which it feeds exclusively. The species is readily identified by its contrasting coloration of black pronotum, brown wings, and yellow legs. It has been documented in the eastern United States and several European countries including Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.