SHRUB LEAF SHREDDING - Ask Extension
We have some shrubs whose leaves have been turned to lace. They then turn brown and the shrub looks dead. I saw some small worms on the underside of s...
Knowledgebase
SHRUB LEAF SHREDDING #933263
Asked May 28, 2026, 11:05 AM EDT
We have some shrubs whose leaves have been turned to lace. They then turn brown and the shrub looks dead. I saw some small worms on the underside of some of the remaining leaves. See attached photo. What is the cause, and is there a treatment? Thank you.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
This appears to be a Viburnum leaf beetle larva on your European/American cranberry bush. They are very active now. They usually don’t kill the shrubs but can do damage to leaves. See the website for details on how to manage them.
1. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/keep_your_eyes_open_for_the_viburnum_leaf_beetles
2. https://www.mda.state.mn.us/plants-insects/viburnum-leaf-beetle
1. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/keep_your_eyes_open_for_the_viburnum_leaf_beetles
2. https://www.mda.state.mn.us/plants-insects/viburnum-leaf-beetle
