Diamondback Moth Larvae

Diamondback larvae are small (about 1/3 inch when full grown), light green, tapering to points on both ends and appearing segmented along the edges of their bodies. The also wiggle frantically when touched which helps distinguish them from other caterpillars. They feed mostly on outer or older leaves of ornamental cabbage and kale chewing out small holes or at the growing points of young plants. Adult moths lay their tiny, roundish eggs singly on the undersides of leaves; eggs are difficult to find.

Larvae can be managed with either chemical insecticides labeled for caterpillars or Bacillus thuringiensis when they are young and actively feeding.