Proserpinus

Proserpinus (latin Proserpinus proserpina) is a moth belonging to the order Lepidoptera and the family Sphingidae. Commonly known as the Willowherb Hawkmoth, it is primarily a nectar feeder as an adult, but its larval stage (caterpillar) acts as a phytophagous pest on specific plant groups.

The primary hosts for these larvae are plants in the Onagraceae family, most notably Epilobium (willowherb) and Oenothera (evening primrose). While often considered a rare or protected species in some regions, in garden settings, larvae can cause significant defoliation of cultivated species of evening primrose.

The life cycle involves a single generation per year in colder climates, or potentially two in warmer areas. The insect overwinters as a pupa underground. After emergence, the adults fly from late spring to summer. Females lay eggs on the leaves of host plants, and the resulting caterpillars feed voraciously until they are ready to pupate.

The damage caused by Proserpinus is primarily foliar. Caterpillars consume large quantities of leaf tissue, leading to ragged leaves or complete stripping of the foliage. This reduces the plant's photosynthetic capacity, which can hinder flower production and overall plant vigor, particularly in young or stressed individuals.

To manage potential infestations of this pest, consider the following integrated approach:

• Cultivating the soil around host plants in late autumn to expose pupae to natural predators and cold.
• Hand-picking larvae from garden plants during the peak feeding season.
• Applying Bacillus thuringiensis-based insecticides if biological control is preferred.
• Monitoring plant growth closely to ensure that aesthetic damage does not exceed tolerance thresholds.