Shoots do not elongate normally and there is a proliferation of small and weak side shoots giving a broom effect. Aphid colonies build up in folded leaves. Honeysuckle aphids overwinter as eggs and are primarily found on plants that were infested the previous year. Eggs hatch in the spring giving rise to the first generation of aphids. Many generations may be produced during the summer.
All aphids are females which reproduce asexually.
Sexual aphid forms are produced in the fall of the year and these produce the overwintering eggs. Honeysuckle aphids are very small and easily overlooked. They are pale green to creamish in color and covered with a fine powdery dust. The brooming effect of honeysuckles is a giveaway for the presence of honeysuckle aphids. Many eggs may be eliminated by the removal and disposal of the previous year's infested plant materials.