The azalea lace bug, Stephanitis pyrioides (Scott) (Tingidae: Hempitera), is a major pest of azaleas (Rhododendron L. spp.). Since its introduction from Asia in the 1940s, the pest has spread considerably within and outside the US. It causes severe economic damage to azaleas and also attacks other ericaceous hosts. The widespread acceptance and cultivation of its preferred host plants, azaleas, in landscapes and home gardens prompted extensive research on S. pyrioides with respect to biology, damage and management. This review summarizes the work done on this pest and provides directions for future research.