About the Rhododendron Leafhopper
Graphocephala fennahi (rhododendron leafhopper) is a species of leafhopper native to the United States. Its common name derives from it feeding on the sap of rhododendrons. The species was introduced to Great Britain in the 1930s and continental Europe in the 1970s. They possibly contribute to the spread of the rhododendron fungus (Pycnostysanus azaleae) through Europe.
Adults possess green wings with purple tips which each feature two orange stripes. Their heads, undersides and legs are yellow, and they have a purple stripe across the top of their heads, extending over the eyes. Males are 7.4-8.8 mm (about 0.35 in) long, and females are a little larger, around 8.2–9 mm (about 0.35 in). Nymphs are light yellow and wingless.
They move by jumping or, as adults, flying short distances. When disturbed, they quickly jump away. Skin sheds of the leafhopper can be found on the underside of leaves. They are related to cicadas, spittlebugs, and treehoppers. They feed on the sap from rhododendron plants by sucking it out with a proboscis.
They are recorded in grassy lands, brushy habitats, and mixed hardwood forests, usually found in areas with rhododendron... Wikipedia →