Photo by Drees.
Large populations develop over the summer.
Host plants are restricted to oleander, butterfly weed and milkweed. Aphids do not usually cause plant health to suffer, although their high numbers and accumulation of sooty mold associated with honey dew expelled can be a nuisance and be unsightly. Infested aphids swell, turn brown and die. The wasp cuts a hole in the back of the aphid s abdomen to emerge. For additional information, contact your local Texas extension service agent, or search for other state extension service offices.