Root Weevils: Troublesome Rhododendron Pests
Hank Helm
Bainbridge Island, Washington
Perhaps the worst insect pests that attack rhododendrons are the several species of weevil, found in nearly all areas of the world. Weevils attack over 100 different plant species in addition to rhododendrons. They attack yews (Taxus), hemlock (Tsuga), strawberry (Fragaria), various vines and flowers and even potted houseplants. In the Pacific Northwest, weevils also feed on salal (Galtheria shallon) and huckleberry (Vaccinium).
The most common and most significant of weevil species are: black vine weevil, Otiorhynchus sulcatus; obscure root weevil, Nemocestes incomptus; woods weevil, Sciopithes obscures; strawberry root weevil, Otiorhynchus ovatus; rough strawberry root weevil, O. rugosostriatus; obscure root weevil, Sciopithes obscures; clay-colored weevil, Otiorhynchus singularis; and (no common name) Dyslobus ssp. Collectively all of these species are commonly called root weevils. Varying in length from about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) to 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) long, they have a short broad snout with antennae attached. They vary in color from slate gray to blackish brown and generally have some small yellow or white flecks on their backs.
American Rhododendron Society
Executive Director: P.O. Box 525, Niagara Falls, NY 14304
Ph: 416-424-1942 Fax: 905-262-1999 E-Mail: lauragrant@arsoffice.org
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