Azalea: Obliquebanded leafroller
categories: Azalea Azalea Insects Ornamentals Shrubs
last review date: 2026-04-09 01:55
Photo by: A.L. Antonelli
Biology
Obliquebanded leafrollers are usually found on the new growth. Their presence can be determined by rolled leaves held in place with webbing.
The smooth green caterpillars, about 3/4″ long, can be found feeding inside the rolled leaves.
The adult is an orange-brown moth approximately 1/2″ long and bell shaped from above when at rest.
Management Options
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful problem management.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Naturally-occurring parasites and predators including birds and predaceous ground beetles will help control leafroller populations.
- Pinch leaves to kill individual leafrollers.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Apply when larvae are present and feeding.
- Sevin (carbaryl) is particularly dangerous to honeybees since it does not immediately kill them. They return to the hive with the poison and distribute it within. Therefore avoid carbaryl if at all possible if there is a chance of pesticide drifting onto nearby blooming plants.
- Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) will control leafrollers only if they are actively feeding.
- Use a spreader-sticker with liquid Bt formulations.
Approved Pesticides
Examples of pesticides that are legal for home use in Washington State are listed below.
The list may not include all products registered for this use.
Additional Image
Photo by: J.F. Brunner
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.