Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > Garden Pests > Beetles, bugs, ants, and other insects without obvious wings - Under 1/4 inch long > Rose aphid

Rose aphid

Macrosiphum rosae

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Size: Up to 1/8 inch long.

Description: Pear-shaped, green or pink colored. They have long antennae and two cornicles ("tail pipes") on the rear of their abdomen (Identification of aphid species can be challenging; different species can be similarly colored).

Where/When: Feeds in groups on the tips of new shoots and buds of roses. Aphids are active from June through October.

Significance: Low to moderate numbers cause little or no damage. Heavy infestations can cause distortion of young leaves and stunt new growth. Honeydew (aphid waste product) attracts ants and sooty mold (black fungus) may grow on it.

More information on Rose aphid