Gardens with Wings

What Butterflies Can I Attract to My Garden?

 

Banded Hairstreak Butterfly (Satyrium calanus)

gray butterfly with red spot
Banded Hairstreak
Copyright: Fred Miller

The Banded Hairstreak is a small butterfly that is fascinating to watch as it is perched on low branches or shrubs. It is a fun challenge following them because they have an erratic flight pattern.

The Banded Hairstreak is chestnut brown with a beautiful blue patch on the hindwing surrounded by a black and red pattern. The hindwings have two tail-like extensions that are common among Gossamer Wing butterflies.

These butterflies are a pleasant visitor to any landscaping.

Banded Hairstreak Host and Nectar Plants

Host Plants for the Banded Hairstreak: (What is this?)
Oak Tree
Nectar Plants for the Banded Hairstreak: (What is this?)
Common Milkweed, Dogbane, Flowering Dogwood, Swamp Milkweed, Yarrow, and more
Where to Buy Plants

Banded Hairstreak Facts And Information

Butterfly Family: Gossamer-wings (Lycaenidae)
Butterfly Subfamily: Hairstreak (Theclinae)
Butterfly Wingspan: 1 in. to 1 1/2 in.
Butterfly Habitat: Woodland areas, forest edges

Banded Hairstreak Flight Range Map

Note: Map represents approximate butterfly flight range.