Disease or Infestation on Penstemon? - Ask Extension
Is this a disease? This leaf damage and curling has affected two out of several penstemon (Husker Red) and may be affecting the others. Should I take ...
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Disease or Infestation on Penstemon? #867744
Asked May 09, 2024, 1:09 PM EDT
Is this a disease? This leaf damage and curling has affected two out of several penstemon (Husker Red) and may be affecting the others. Should I take out the plants? Any other way to address the situation?
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi,
This looks like feeding damage from four lined plant bug. Most plants grow out of the damage by mid-summer. They are fast so it is difficult to target them with a contact insecticide like insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
You can try to pick them off if you can get them but the penstemon should be fine. If the leaves are too damaged you can pick them off.
Emily
