Citrus whitefly development is similar except it lays fewer eggs and there are three major generations per year. In south Florida, they will be approximately two to three weeks earlier and one week later in north Florida. Host Plants Host range varies greatly with different species . The silverleaf whitefly feeds on approximately 700 species of plants, poinsettia being the most common host. The citrus whitefly commonly attacks citrus, allamanda, chinaberry, gardenia, poinsettia and many other annual, perennial and woody plants.
Some whiteflies are present year-round.
The largest numbers occur in late summer and early fall. Damage Both adults and immature whiteflies feed on the leaves of plants, but the larvae inflict the most damage. Their withdrawal of sap reduces plant vigor and causes leaves to turn yellow or chlorotic. Heavy infestations will cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. Larvae excrete large amounts of honeydew causing sooty mold.