The Palmetto Weevil is generally lethal to cabbage palms and there is, as yet, no effective treatment. In most instances, affected trees should be cut down. In regions of weevil infestation, intensive insecticide application can prevent infestations in valuable healthy trees but, in most cases, this is not an economically viable option. Appearance Palmetto weevils are large and not particularly attractive insects. Weevils are distinguished by large mandibles which extend from the tops of their heads.
Palmetto weevils start life as eggs laid in the leaves or damaged areas of a host tree.
After about three days, the eggs hatch and the grubs begin to feed on the tissue of the palm. The larvae grow by moulting and with each successive moult their appetites grow. In their final stage, the mature larvae move from deep within the tree to the outer area and spin cocoons around themselves. Weevils emerge from the cocoons after several weeks to mate. The entire cycle takes about 12 weeks.