The bugs feed on the undersides of the leaves, initially causing a white stippling that can eventually progress into chlorotic or bronzed foliage and premature senescence of leaves. In cases of severe infestations, trees may be defoliated in late summer.
Heavy infestations are more common in urban areas than in natural settings.
The sycamore lace bug occurs throughout the eastern USA and in eastern Canada. In most years, it is common in most of the places that sycamores grow in Florida. The sycamore lace bug was discovered in Europe in 1964 in Padova, Italy. In northern Italy, the sycamore lace bug is associated with two fungi, Ceratocystis fimbriata Ellis and Halst. In addition to damaging trees, the sycamore lace bug has become a major nuisance in Europe, as sycamore is a very popular shade tree in parks in southern Europe.