Tulip Tree Scale
Contact: Eric Day, Manager, Insect Identification Laboratory
August 1996
Tulip Tree Scale
Homoptera: Coccidae, Toumeyella liriodendri (Gmel)
Plants Attacked
Linden, tulip poplar, magnolia.
Description of Damage
Causes weakened condition of plant and
reduces vigor and growth. Heavy infestations may kill trees,
young trees and branches on older trees. Plant parts attacked -
leaves and bark. Damage occurs through all stages.
Identification
Female hemispherical and dark chocolate brown in
color. Usually symmetrical but shape varies in crowded
populations.
Life History
Immature stages complete development in spring,
mature, and give live birth in late August. The old females then
fall from the plant. The young develop to the second instar and
then become dormant until the following spring. One generation
per year. Overwintering stage - 2nd instar.
Control
Sprays should be applied in late August and two weeks
later for crawlers or in late March or early April with superior
dormant oil for over-wintering immatures.
Remarks
Large amounts of honeydew secretions are present with
this group of scales.