Pest profile

Rosy Apple Aphid

Dysaphis plantaginea · Hemiptera: Aphididae[2]

Rosy apple aphids inject a toxin that curls leaves and distorts fruit, making them the most serious aphids on apples.[1]

Rosy apple aphids, purplish-pink aphids in a crowded colony on a leaf
Rosy apple aphids, purplish-pink aphids in a crowded colony on a leaf. (c) Nikita Gerasin, some rights reserved (CC BY) — via iNaturalist, CC BY 4.0

How to identify it

  • Nymphs change from dark green to purple as they grow.[1]
  • Tightly curled leaves, often bright crimson, are the telltale sign.[1]

Look-alikes

Look-alikeHow to tell them apart
Other apple aphidsGreen apple and apple-grain aphids also feed on apples, but the rosy apple aphid does the most damage.[1]

Where it lives

UK Extension describes it as one of three aphids that attack apple foliage in Kentucky.[1]

US map: public records from 6 states since 1990 (GBIF).

Biology and life cycle

It overwinters as black eggs on apple twigs; nymphs hatch shortly after silver tip.[1]

By midsummer winged forms move to dock and narrow-leaved plantain, returning to apples in fall.[1]

Damage and signs

  • Even low numbers can stunt and deform fruit, and honeydew grows sooty mold.[1]
  • Cortland, Ida Red and Golden Delicious are especially susceptible.[1]

Health risk

It feeds on plants; UK Extension mentions no risk to people.[1]

Control

Prevention

Monitor trees closely; once leaves curl tightly, spray coverage and control get harder.[1]

Biological control

Predators often control it, so open curled leaves to see whether aphids or predators remain before deciding.[1]

Common questions

Why are my apple leaves curled and red?
Rosy apple aphids feeding inside curled leaves are a common cause.[1]
Should I spray right away?
Open curled leaves first; predators may already be controlling the aphids.[1]

Sources

  1. University of Kentucky Entomology (ENTFACT), “Rosy Apple Aphid (ENTFACT-211).” entomology.mgcafe.uky.edu/ef211 (accessed 2026-10-06)
  2. iNaturalist, “Dysaphis plantaginea taxon page (order and family).” www.inaturalist.org/taxa/343383 (accessed 2026-10-06)

Updated 2026-10-14. Built from sourced records. Spot an error? Tell us.