SAPW in Phoenix Roebelenii in RSF Fairbanks

Queen Palm in Eastlake attacked by SAPW

The South American Palm Weevil host list continues to grow…

In early December 2023: Phoenix Roebelenii in Rancho Santa Fe (Fairbanks) fell under attack of the SAPW.

By early January 2024: 2 Queen Palms were removed in Eastlake due to SAPW infestation.

Mid January 2024:  A confirmed SAPW kill on a Phoenix Dactylifera in a heavily infested SAPW area of Fairbanks Ranch (RSF).

SAPW in Phoenix Roebelenii in RSF Fairbanks

Queen Palm in Eastlake attacked by SAPW

slide 47 confirmation bug resize

Phoenix Dactylifera

Up to Date Host List 

  • Bismark palm
  • Butia palm
  • Canary Island date palm
  • Chilean Wine Palm

  • Dactylifera date palm (NEW HOST)

  • King palm
  • Majesty palm
  • Parajubaea

  • Queen palm (NEW HOST)

  • Reclinata Palm

  • Roebelenii / Pigmy date palm (NEW HOST)

Canary Island Date Palm

The following maps show the progressive spread of SAPW in San Diego County from 2020 to 2024 and growing host list as shown on the icon in the top right corner:

Best Management Practices

Prevention, Prevention, Prevention!

  • Once a palm is “attacked” the chance of survival is not likely

  • Preventative insecticides applications made at Quarterly intervals have shown the best results.

  • Crown drench / spraying has shown to be the most effective application

map feb 2024