Recent calls and observations have reported planthoppers on the flower stalks of hosta, on euonymus groundcover and on several other flowers, vegetable plants and shrubs. Planthopper nymphs are light green to yellowish brown and jump quickly when disturbed. Their distinctive feature, however, is the small tuft of white, cottony fuzz under which they can be concealed. Strands of this fuzz often accumulate along stems and branches, but most of it is carried right on the nymphs.
Planthoppers are more conspicuous than injurious.
Although they are sap feeders, little if any damage occurs to otherwise healthy plants. Control measures are seldom necessary. Most gardeners can safely ignore this amusing curiosity after sufficient close observation and enjoyment. On hostas and some other infested plants cutting off infested flower stalks or other plant parts may be desirable. Spraying with insecticidal soap spray is a last resort that few will be able to justify.