Seen in Jamaica Plain: Invasive Spotted Lanternfly

The other day I happened upon the very invasive spotted lanternfly outside of our house — and killed it. That’s what the state advises us to do — kill the spotted lanternfly.

The spotted lanternfly (SLF) was first detected in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014, and detected in Massachusetts in 2022. It has been documented in many municipalities across the state.

While the spotted lanternfly has a very cool red and black look when it’s in the older nymph or adult stage with wings, they cause damage to trees and other woody plants by feeding on their sap. The primary host plant is the invasive tree-of-heaven, researchers have found that it targets grapevines, hops, fruit trees, and has the potential to become a serious agricultural pest, according to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.

Keep in mind that it doesn’t hurt humans or pets.

When you see the SLF, you should check trees and any other items on property that could have SLF adults, nymphs, or egg masses. Avoid parking under infested trees and inspect your vehicle before leaving your property.

If you do decide to remove tree-of-heaven, an herbicide must be used to kill the root system. The state advises that a cost-saving option would be to target only female tree-of-heaven for removal, to prevent additional seed production. Any male plants that remain can be treated with a systemic insecticide that will kill SLF as they feed.

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