Be on the Lookout for the South American Palm Weevil

A significant threat to California’s iconic palm tree population has been occurring over the past decade. The South American Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus palmarum) continues to attack palms statewide.

Native to tropical regions of South and Central America, the South American Palm Weevil has a particular affinity for palm species including the majestic Canary Islands date palm and edible date palms that adorn California’s landscapes. The female lays eggs in the palm’s crown where the larvae subsequently feed on the tree’s apical meristem or palm heart, leading to almost certain decline and death of the tree.

One challenge in combating the South American Palm Weevil is its ability to go undetected until significant damage has occurred. Early detection is crucial for effective control. Mature palms show signs of infestation starting at the crown. Look for fronds that are collapsed into an umbrella shape, notching in the fronds, and fallen fronds with holes chewed through. Not removing a dead or dying tree can increase the risk of injury or even death when damaged fronds fall, or the entire crown breaks off.

Be on the lookout for adult weevils too. They are deep black in color, measure nearly two inches long, and identifiable long weevil snout, or rostrum.

If you think your palm trees are under attack contact Palms 360 immediately, or better yet, have your trees inspected by our experts in holistic horticulture to protect your palms from this invasion.