American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis)
Orange Butterfly with Brown and White Markings
Copyright: Fred Miller
This lady loves open areas and enjoys visiting gardens. The American Lady is beautifully colored with two large eye spots on the underside of the hind wings. This is the characteristic that distinguishes it from Painted Lady butterfly. The flight area is usually close to the ground so they are easy to see but getting close is difficult, they are quick fliers. The American Lady butterfly is common and they are a delight to have in any garden.
Facts And Information
Family: Brush-footed Butterflies (Nymphalidae)
Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)
Average Wingspan: 1 3/4 in. to 2 5/8 in.
Habitat: Open areas, gardens
Similar To: Painted Lady, West Coast Lady
Two Eyespots on Hind Wing
Copyright: Fred Miller
Using Proboscis to Feed
Copyright: Fred Miller
Plants That Attract The American Lady
Host Plants: (What is this?)
Nectar Plants: (What is this?)
Aster, Bee Balm, Common Milkweed, Dogbane, Goldenrod, Joe-Pye weed, Marigold, Tall Verbena, and more
Note: Always check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to make sure a plant will grow in your area.
American Lady Life Cycle
Burgundy Body with Beige Stripes
Copyright: Fred Miller
Caterpillar
Copyright: Patty Bigner
Beige Chrysalis
Copyright: Fred Miller
Drying Wings after Emerging from Chrysalis
Copyright: Fred Miller
Butterfly Flight Range
Note: Map represents approximate butterfly flight range.
