The Hollyhock Seed Moth (Platyedra Malvella Hubn.), together with notes on the distribution of Apion Radiolus Kirby and an associated Glinodiplosis species

Summary A survey has been made of the distribution of Platyedra malvella Hübn. in Great Britain and it has been found that the larvae are restricted on hollyhock to the south-eastern counties of England. Apion radiolus Kirby and a gall midge Clinodiplosis species which are also found in the seed-heads of hollyhock are generally distributed throughout England; the Clinodiplosis species also occurs in Wales and Ireland. The life cycle of Platyedra malvella has been described. There is only one generation a year. The moths are on the wing late in June until the beginning of August. The larvae feed on the seeds of hollyhock perforating the seeds characteristically. When full grown from the middle of August onwards, the larvae descend to the soil where they spend the winter in cocoons. In May the larvae become active again and tunnel through the soil. They spin up again towards the end of May and in June for pupation. The host plants are Althaea rosea, A. officinalis and there is at least one record on cotton.