Flatid Planthopper

Natural Habitat

Found on the underside of leaves and stems of various trees, shrubs, and weeds in gardens, forests, and agricultural areas.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous. They use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant juices (phloem) from a wide variety of host plants.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs often produce a white, waxy, cotton-like substance for protection. Adults are typically wedge-shaped and jumping insects that can also fly. They are often found in groups during the summer months.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a minor garden pest. While they can cause slight damage to plants through feeding or by excreting 'honeydew' (which may lead to sooty mold), they rarely cause significant harm to healthy plants and are not harmful to humans.

Identified on: 4/15/2026