I have lost 4 out of 6 baptisias in the last few years, and just recently I discovered that one of the remaining 2 was completely defoliated. I discovered an army of caterpillars on the now bare branches, and starting to take over my remaining hybrid baptisia. I googled and found this caterpillar. I don't know if the defoliated one will come back or not; it is my oldest one. Right now I am drowning the ones I can pick off in a bucket of water and dawn dish liquid. They are BAD BUGS in my books!
So to fast forward:
2022: The nearly defoliated baptisia eventually recovered but I am quick to spot any of those caterpillars. It seems to have been a one time event and if this moth has any good qualities I say let them find another place to live!
