Severely damaged leaves of the coral tree, Erythrina variegata, caused by the erythrina gall wasp were first found at Manoa on the island of Oahu in April 2005. Within six months, the wasp had spread to all the major Hawaiian islands, severely affecting various species of Erythrina, including the native E. sandsicensis.

Erythrina gall wasp eggs are inserted into young leaf and stem tissue.  Wasp larvae, which develop within plant tissue, induce the formation of galls in leaflets and petioles.  As the infestation progresses, leaves curl and become deformed while petioles and shoots become swollen.  Heavily galled leaves and stems result in a loss of growth and vigor. Severe and persisting infestations can result in the death of Erythrina trees.

• HDOA New Pest Advisory - Erythrina Gall Wasp
• Plant Pest control activities highlighted in the  Hawaii Department of Agriculture Annual 2006 Report  beginning on page 27.