Download Care Guide (PDF)

You can download a printable version of our full Leaf Insect Care Guide using the link below:

Download Care Guide (PDF)

Leaf Insect Care Guide

This guide covers everything you need to keep your leaf insects healthy, happy, and thriving in the UK.

Species Overview

• Common species: Phyllium philippinicum
• Lifespan: 6–10 months
• Temperament: Gentle, slow-moving
• Difficulty: Beginner-friendly

Enclosure Requirements

Leaf insects need tall enclosures with good airflow.

• Nymphs: 20 × 20 × 30 cm
• Adults: 30 × 30 × 45 cm
• Use mesh lids or side ventilation panels
• Substrates: kitchen roll, coco fibre, orchid bark, or sphagnum moss

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: 22–26°C (UK homes usually fine)
• Humidity: 60–80%
• Mist lightly once per day

Food Plants

Safe UK plants:

• Bramble (blackberry)
• Raspberry leaves
• Rose leaves
• Hawthorn
• Oak (young leaves)

Replace leaves every 3–5 days and wash them before use.

Egg Care

• Temperature: 22–26°C
• Humidity: 60–70%
• Do not bury eggs — keep them on the surface
• Hatching time: 4–6 months (sometimes up to 8)

Nymph Care

• Provide lots of climbing branches
• Humidity: 70–80%
• Offer young, soft leaves
• Ensure they can hang freely to moult

Adult Care

• Mist once daily
• Replace food every few days
• Handle gently — they are fragile

Common Problems

• Mould: Increase ventilation
• Failed moults: Add vertical branches and maintain humidity
• Not eating: Switch to bramble

Quick Reference

• Temp: 22–26°C
• Humidity: 60–80%
• Food: Bramble, rose, raspberry
• Mist: Daily
• Eggs: 4–6 months to hatch