potato aphid

insect

Also known as: Macrosiphum euphorbiae

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Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

The potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) is a common aphid that affects potatoes and many other plants. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap. They can cause significant damage to plants by stunting growth, deforming leaves and flowers, and transmitting virus diseases.12

Potato aphids overwinter on rosebushes and hatch into young that feed on roses before migrating to potatoes in the spring. They reproduce rapidly, with one generation occurring every two to three weeks. These aphids are known carriers of tomato and potato mosaic virus diseases.2

Aphids are often controlled by natural predators like ladybird beetles and lacewings. However, when infestations are severe, insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, and other insecticides may be used.2

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aphid
Types of aphids
The potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) begins as black eggs on rose plants, which hatch into pink and green young that feed on rosebuds and leaves. In early spring they migrate to potatoes, which are the summer host. One generation occurs every two to three weeks. It…
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The potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) begins as black eggs on rose plants, which hatch into pink and green young that feed on rosebuds and leaves. In early spring they migrate to potatoes, which are the summer host. One generation occurs every two to three weeks. It…
Read More