Report sightings directly to Clemson using our easy-to-remember link: scnps.org/alert
An invasive insect called the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has recently been detected in South Carolina. Native to Asia, this insect has spread rapidly in the United States since its first detection in Pennsylvania in 2014. This insect has a broad appetite, attacking fruit crops, ornamental plants, and many species of woody trees. Its presence poses serious risks to agriculture, forestry, and the health of our native ecosystems.
Why it matters:
-
The spotted lanternfly damages plants by feeding on sap and excreting a sticky substance called honeydew, which encourages mold growth.
-
Infestations can weaken trees and shrubs, reduce crop yields, and disrupt native habitats.
-
The insect spreads easily by hitchhiking on vehicles, firewood, outdoor equipment, and even clothing.
What you can do:
-
Learn to recognize all life stages of the insect, from egg masses to adults.
-
Check your vehicles, outdoor gear, and plant material if traveling from infested areas.
-
Most importantly: report any sightings immediately.
Clemson University’s Department of Plant Industry is the state authority tracking the spotted lanternfly. SCNPS’s role is to help funnel reports to their system.
Working together, we can help protect our landscapes, agriculture, and native plants from this invasive pest.
