The Dogwood Sawfly (Macremphytus tarsatus) is an insect that targets various species of dogwood trees and shrubs. This is an insect pest that can affect dogwood plants in summer. A part of the Hymenoptera order, which includes bees, wasps, and ants, the sawfly poses a threat to dogwoods by consuming their leaves, causing aesthetic and potentially more serious damage.

While dogwood sawflies are a nuisance, they are not typically life-threatening to established, healthy dogwood trees. However, their presence should not be ignored.

- The dogwood sawfly is mostly seen on shrub dogwoods -e.g., silky dogwood (Cornus amomum) and red osier dogwood (C. sericea).
- There is one generation each year. Monitor for them starting in early July.
- Upon hatching, the young larvae feed together and chew the leaves.
- After the second molt, the larvae become covered with a white powdery material.
- After their final molt, they lose the powdery covering and change color.
- The mature larvae are yellowish with a shiny black head and black spots.
- These mature larvae will wander about in search of an overwintering site, generally in soft or decaying wood.

The following articles should answer most of your questions:
https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/dogwood-sawfly
https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/cooperative-extension/fact-sheets/dogwood-sawfly/
https://purdueplantdoctor.com/factsheet/tree-183
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/sawflies