Observation date: October 18, 2016
Submitted by: HLandel
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: My potted plant had 5 of them feeding on it. I think my plant is Pentas lanceolata. I am certain they were not on the plant a few days ago, as I was working on it. I am very puzzled as to where they came from! Other plant nearby that has insect damage is Turk's cap (Malvaviscus arbors).
Status: Resident
Verified by: stomlins701
Verified date: October 18, 2016
Coordinator notes: Tersa Sphinx caterpillars feed on pentas and they can grow very quickly in just a few days. Their color tends to blend well with the plants and they can be difficult to see/find before the plant is nearly bare of leaves. The good news is the plant will grow back, pentas are pretty resilient in my experience, except to freezing weather. SAT
