Tomato Hornworm

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, and areas where nightshade plants are found across North America.

Diet & Feeding

Leaves and stems of plants in the Solanaceae family, including tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and tobacco.

Behavior Patterns

The larva is a voracious eater that can quickly defoliate a host plant. They use camouflage to stay hidden during the day and are most active at night. When threatened, they may rear up their front ends. They pupate in the soil before emerging as Five-Spotted Sphinx Moths.

Risks & Benefits

Considered a major garden pest because they can destroy crops very quickly. Environmentally, the adult moth acts as a pollinator for deep-throated flowers.

Identified on: 5/5/2026