INSECTS of...Hardwood Branch and Stem

Common Name:	HOLLY PIT SCALE HOLLY PIT SCALES on the bark of an American hollytree.
Species	Asterolecanium putneanum
Common Hosts:	American holly Ilex opaca Burford holly Ilex cornuta Dahoon holly Ilex cassine Japanese holly Ilex crenapa Yaupon Ilex vomitoria
Description	Adult -- female approximately 1-2 mm wide; circular, slightly raised, yellowish-green, waxy body covering.
Importance	Severe infestations may result in branch dieback; death of tree uncommon.
Signs of Infestation	Foliage discoloration and branch dieback. Twigs and branches with ring-like swellings or pits in bark. A result of reduced growth at the scale feeding site, but continued growth of surrounding tissue.
Control	Promote tree vigor and health. Use an approved insecticide for high-value trees or high scale populations. Prune branches that have significant scale levels.

Bulletin No. 196-A | Printed October, 1983 | Contact the Forest Health Section

HOLLY PIT SCALE