Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What's wrong with my plant? > Deciduous > Lilac > Base is swollen and/or cracked
Lilac > Stems/branches > Base is swollen and/or cracked
1 of 1
Lilac Borer (also known as ash borer)
Podosesia syringae
- Wilted or dead stems
- Base of stem swollen with ¼ inch exit holes
- Sap, sawdust and frass exuding from holes
- Reddish-brown pupa cases sometimes found protruding from exit holes
- Larvae are 1' long; creamy white with light brown head
- Adult is a clear wing moth that resembles paper wasp; smoky brown forewing, hindwing is clear with brown edge.
- More information on Lilac borer
