Texas — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) announced immediate measures after detecting the cotton jassid, also known as the two-spotted leafhopper, on hibiscus plants shipped from Costa Farms Nursery and its subsidiaries in Florida.
The cotton jassid is an invasive pest that feeds on a variety of plants, including cotton, okra, eggplant, sunflower, hibiscus, and several weeds. Heavy infestations can cause leaf curling, yellowing, and plant decline, posing a serious economic threat to Texas agriculture, particularly the state’s cotton industry.
Commissioner Miller stated that the department’s response is “risk-based, science-driven, and coordinated with industry,” emphasizing swift action to protect farmers and the multibillion-dollar cotton sector.
TDA has ordered the detection and destruction of infested hibiscus and any other plants in the cotton family originating from the affected nurseries. Effective immediately, Costa Farms and its subsidiaries are prohibited from shipping these plants into Texas. Inspectors are also conducting statewide market checks to remove affected plants from retail shelves.
The department is collaborating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, cotton producer organizations, and the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association to evaluate the threat. Educational materials are being distributed to growers, retailers, and the public to help identify and report suspected infestations.
Officials reported that the pest was first detected in Puerto Rico in April 2023, followed by sightings in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, and now multiple locations in Texas, including College Station, McAllen, Weslaco, Harlingen, Victoria, Cedar Park, Waco, El Paso, and Longview.
Residents who have purchased hibiscus or other cotton-family plants are encouraged to inspect their plants for signs of infestation and contact TDA at 1-800-TELL-TDA or through any TDA Regional Office if they suspect an infestation.
