Phyllocoptes eupadi Phyllocoptes eupadi Phyllocoptes eupadi is a mite that chemically induces a pouch gall to develop as a sub-spherical distortion rising up from the upper surface of the lamina of leaves of blackthorn shrubs "Prunus spinosa" and other "Prunus" spp. Synonyms are "Eriophyes padi" (Nalepa) and "Phytoptus padi prunianus" (Nalepa 1890). The gall's appearance on the upper surface is sub-spherical pustules, hairy and opening below, often clustering along the midrib, but also found over the whole leaf lamina surface and may vary in colour from pale yellow-green to deep red. The adult mite lives on sap, sucked from the cell tissues.
Prunus serrula typical of "Prunus", are produced in clusters of one to three. The fruit is a small oval bright red drupe. "Prunus serrula" is grown as a ornamental tree, especially for winter interest. It tolerates a variety of soil types and has a wide pH range. It prefers full sun and does well in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 8. Its potential as an invasive species is low, as it is susceptible to many common garden diseases and pests such as fire blight, powdery mildew and Japanese beetles. It is sometimes grafted to "Prunus serrulata" (Japanese cherry) crowns, forming a tree