CALIFORNIA, Md. — The Maryland Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service have confirmed the state’s first detection of the box tree moth, a destructive invasive species known to damage and kill boxwood shrubs.
The insect was found at Fort Frederick State Park in Washington County, prompting state park staff to begin removing and destroying infected plants to help contain the outbreak.
Native to East Asia, the box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) feeds primarily on boxwood leaves and bark. The pest can produce multiple generations each year and, if left unchecked, can cause complete defoliation and death of the plant.
The moth was first detected in the United States in 2021 in New York and has since spread to Delaware, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
Although the pest has not yet been confirmed in Southern Maryland, agricultural officials are urging residents and nursery operators in the region to monitor for signs of infestation.
“These moths can spread rapidly and devastate ornamental landscapes,” said a statement from the Maryland Department of Agriculture. “Early detection is critical to preventing widespread damage.”
Residents are advised to examine boxwood shrubs for lime-green caterpillars with black stripes, defoliation, and silken webbing. Adult moths are typically white with a brown border on their wings and are most active at night.
Infestations may go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Once the leaves are consumed, caterpillars feed on the bark, which can ultimately kill the plant.
Officials recommend that any suspected infestations be reported immediately to the Plant Protection and Weed Management Program at ppwm.mda@maryland.gov. Photos should be included in the report when possible.
Boxwood plant material showing signs of infestation should be double-bagged and disposed of in the trash, not composted.
Licensed nurseries are required to monitor their stock and report any findings to the state. The Department of Agriculture is also working with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and USDA APHIS to implement a federal quarantine and long-term treatment plan for impacted areas.
For more information on identification, treatment, and monitoring guidance, residents can visit the University of Maryland Home and Garden Information Center at extension.umd.edu.
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