Spotted Lanternfly can wander over just about any plant (or even inanimate surfaces like house siding and tree bark), but they will not cause any serious harm when they are feeding. The only exceptions to plants suffering notable damage from high lanternfly populations are grape and hops, generally in farms/vineyards where the plants are numerous. In home gardens, these insects don't warrant intervention, and the Itea will be fine. (The initial kill-on-sight message from the MD Department of Agriculture was intended to slow the insect's spread, but that battle was lost awhile ago since they occur essentially state-wide already.) Insecticidal soap can kill just about any insect the spray touches (its dried residues are not effective), beneficial or pest, but we do not recommend the use of a home remedy version. The linked page by Penn State Extension provides a good overview of the reasons why home remedies are not wise choices. If the Itea exhibits any concerning symptoms going forward, it will be due to other issues, and feel free to send us photos for assessment if that happens.

Miri