Rose Aphid
Adult -This large (2.5-mm) aphid has long, dark legs and honey tubes. Its body is pink, purplish, or green. Adults may have wings.
Egg -The egg has not been described.
Nymph -Nymphs resemble wingless adults (except they are smaller than adults). Both green and pink forms occur in the nymphal stages. .
Host Plants -Rose aphids feed on rose and sometimes on pyracantha.
Damage -Rose aphids feed on tender shoots and buds. High populations reduce quality and quantity of flowers.
Life History -The entire life cycle may be spent on one host plant. Reproduction is by birth of live young throughout the growing season. In late fall, a generation of males and females is produced. These mate, and females then lay eggs on the rose canes. The eggs are the overwintering form. In spring as new growth resumes, the eggs hatch and the tiny nymphs begin to feed.
Parasitic wasps, lady beetles, and green lacewing adults and larvae prey upon the rose aphid. Except in cool weather, these biological control agents may keep the rose aphid population in check. For specific chemical controls, see the current state extension service recommendations.