This aphid also attacks many ornamental crops such as carnation, chrysanthemum, flowering white cabbage, poinsettia and rose. These aphids have a worldwide distribution. They were first reported on Oahu in 1910 and are now present on all islands within the State. It is common on seedlings, young plants, and lower leaves of older plants. Aphids feed by sucking sap from their hosts.
Economic damage can be high on lettuce.
Seedlings or transplants of lettuce and other cole crops can be stunted by the attack of large populations of this aphid. Green peach aphids rarely cause economic losses on older cabbage and related crops. On fruit crops, extensive feeding causes distortion of young leaves and shoots and premature dropping of fruit. Aphids vector many plant viruses. This is potentially the greatest consequence of aphid infestations.