Adult: Pyracantha leaf-mining moths possess orange wings with white stripey markings. They are so small so are rarely spotted by gardeners. Larvae: The caterpillars are also tiny, and may first be noticed from the silvery shiny blotches on the leaves of Pyracantha plants. Mines: The mines begin to arise in Summer, but adult moths are active from as early as spring. Mines begin following the central vein of the leaf. They begin linear, but start to broaden creating a large, white-silvery blotch that can sometimes span the whole upper surface of the leaf. Once fully grown, the larvae leave the leaf, causing it to fold upwards. Gardeners tend to miss the mines for this reason.

Mines following the central leaf vein. Silvery-white blotches on leaves. Leaves brown and dry. Folded leaves.

Nocturnal

Although mining insects harm the leaves of plants, the overall health is always retained. Good housekeeping, such as pruning hedges and removing leaves which are infested, will aid controlling numbers the following year, limiting the damage caused. Additionally, picking off infected leaves during Autumn will improve any infestations in the coming year. Be sure to dispose of these appropriately to avoid further contamination.

Unfortunately, there are currently no chemical treatments available for home gardeners that will give sufficient control over this pest. Chemicals applied to plants would also harm the beneficial insects which control them; this could exacerbate infestations in future seasons.