ANNAPOLIS, MD (July 23, 2025) ~ The Maryland Department of Agriculture and USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) have announced the first detection of the destructive box tree moth in Maryland. The presence of this pest was confirmed in a state park located in Washington County on July 23, 2025.

The box tree moth, also known as Cydalima perspectalis, is a federally regulated insect that primarily feeds on boxwoods. It can produce multiple generations per year and if left unchecked, can completely destroy the plant. This pest was first discovered in the United States in New York in 2021 and has since spread to other states including Delaware, New York, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Early detection is crucial in preventing significant damage and spread of the box tree moth. The University of Maryland Home and Garden Information Center website provides information on how to identify and treat this pest.

To help monitor for infestations of the box tree moth, individuals are advised to regularly check their boxwood plants for signs such as defoliation, bark stripping, webbing with caterpillars, and adult moths with white wings and a wide brown border. These moths are most active at night and may be difficult to detect.

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If an infestation is suspected, it is important to allow Maryland or Federal agricultural officials to inspect the plants and place detection traps. Any infested material should be double-bagged in plastic bags and disposed of in the trash. Nursery owners are also urged to monitor their boxwoods and implement safeguards to limit the risk of pests. In addition, all licensed nurseries are required to report any detections of the box tree moth to the Maryland Department of Agriculture Nursery Inspection Program or contact their nursery inspector.

The department will be working closely with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources on a treatment plan for the positive boxwood plants found in the state park. They will also be collaborating with USDA APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine to develop a federal quarantine for the pest.

If anyone suspects their boxwoods may be infested with the box tree moth, they are encouraged to contact the Plant Protection and Weed Management program at ppwm.mda@maryland.gov. It is important to attach a picture of the suspected infestation in the email.

The discovery of the box tree moth in Maryland serves as a reminder for individuals to regularly monitor their plants and report any potential infestations. By working together, we can help prevent the spread of this destructive pest and protect our plant life.

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