Dog Rose Galls

Sputnik Gall

Diplolepis nervosa

TQ4792 04/07/2017 ©Raymond Small 

Sputnik Galls (up to 5mm) are caused by gall wasp Diplolepis nervosa. Each gall contains one larva. The galls are normally found on the leaf underside, however occasionally they appear on the upper surface or on the flower stalk, growing singly or in small groups. They can be a mixture of green, pink and yellow; if exposed to the sun they turn deep red. Eventually the galls turn brown and when mature they drop from the leaves. After pupating in the gall a new adult emerges in spring or summer.

Robin's Pincushion

Diplolepis rosae

TQ4792 05/07/2017 ©Raymond Small

Caused by gall wasp Diplolepis rosae. Inside are multi-chambers occupied by developing gall wasps. The gall turns brown and woody when overwintering.

Pod Gall

Dasineura rosae

TQ4792 26/08/2019 ©Raymond Small

Caused by the midge Dasineura rosae. The leaflets fold up and develop pod-like swellings and often become pink or red. Each pod contains many white larvae which change to orange with age. Once mature the larvae vacate the gall and enter the soil where they pupate.

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