Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00001742
11/12/99
Black Vine Weevil
The black vine weevil is sometimes called the taxus weevil
and also attacks broad-leaved evergreens such as
rhododendron.
The insect overwinters outdoors as a soil inhabiting
larva. The adults (Vis. 1) may overwinter in homes or a
similarly sheltered spot. The overwintering larvae (Vis. 2)
pupate in early June. The adults emerge from the soil in
mid-June and begin to lay eggs near the end of June. The
eggs are laid at the base of the plant and hatch within
two weeks and the larvae burrow into the soil. The larvae
feed on the roots.
The adults are black, hard shelled insects with a long
snout. The back appears to be ridged or grooved. The
adults are white, legless grubs. The adults are shy and
hide near the soil during the day.
Both adults and grubs injure plants but that caused by
grubs is most serious. The adults feed on the foliage
causing it to have a notched appearance. Early in the
infestation the injury may be confined to interior and
less obvious foliage. The larvae feed on the roots and
stems. The feeding can girdle the stem, killing the
plant.
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This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
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