Aphis cytisorum

Aphis cytisorum

Alternative names
Broom Aphid
Laburnum Aphid
Description

Aphis cytisorum is a very dark green aphid which may appear greyish because of the strong wax secretion. The adult aptera has a dark sclerotized dorsal abdominal shield, which is often rather fragmented and variable in size. The dark sclerotic areas are strongly reticulate. For further information follow the ‘Further info:’ link below. There are two subspecies of Aphis cytisorum: Aphis cytisorum sarothamni (Broom Aphid) which feeds on Broom. Aphis cytisorum cytisorum (Laburnum Aphid) which feeds on Laburnum. 

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features, then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Please provide a note of the host plant. 

Habitat

In areas with either Broom or Laburnum.

When to see it

Colonies of the Broom Aphid (Aphis cytisorum sarothamni) can be found in most months of the year. Aphis cytisorum cytisorum (Laburnum Aphid) is most likely to be recorded in late spring and summer when Laburnum is in leaf.

UK Status

Believed to be fairly widespread in Britain although true status is difficult to determine due to lack of records, particularly records for Aphis cytisorum cytisorum (Laburnum Aphid).

VC55 Status

Rarely recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

No additional images available for this species.

All NatureSpot records