Elderberry borers (under construction!)

Elder longhorn beetle: The genus, Desmocerus spp. (Cerambycidae) are commonly referred to as elderberry longhorn beetles.  The most important species is D. palliatus. Declining numbers, listed as Special Concern in Massachusetts.

Biology: Adult emerges at about the time of elderberry bloom. Tunnels in lower shoots and cane.  See ForestriImage of  pupa in cane.

Control: 

Additional Reading:


Elder shoot borer, Achatodes zeae (Harris) bores into stems and shoots. Prune out infested shoots.

Additional reading: Penn State insect page of elderberry chapter,
Ontario site,


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Maintained by: Douglas G. Pfeiffer

Department of Entomology
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg