When nearly grown, the larva rolls up the margin of a leaf and spins a cocoon inside. The moth emerges from the cocoon, mates, and deposits eggs for another generation. Development takes about 6 weeks. Under greenhouse conditions the larva may be found anytime during the year. Outdoors, the insect overwinters as a larva or pupa.
Adults appear and females begin to lay eggs about the time azaleas bloom in the spring.
Because the larva protects itself by mining into and rolling the leaf, this insect is not easy to control. Chemical control is possible if applied at the first sign either of the moths or of foliar injury by the larvae. One or two applications, I to 2 weeks apart should give adequate suppression. For chemical control recommendations, consult the current Cooperative Extension Service publications on ornamental plant pest management.