Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)
Orange-brown Wings
Copyright: Fred Miller
The Painted Lady has been around the world. This lady can be found on all continents except Antarctica, making it one of the most common butterflies in the world. They can be found just about anywhere but they prefer open, disturbed areas such as parks and gardens. One distinguishing characteristic of the Painted Lady is the four eyespots on the underside of the hind wing; the American Painted Lady has two eyespots. These quick, zigzagging fliers are hard to follow but can be seen basking in the sun or nectaring. They are a pleasure to have in every garden.
See more photos below to help you identify and attract the Painted Lady butterfly to your garden.
Facts And Information
Family: Brush-footed Butterflies (Nymphalidae)
Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)
Average Wingspan: 2 in. to 2 7/8 in.
Habitat: Open areas, fields, parks, gardens
Similar To: American Lady, West Coast Lady
Wings Closed
Copyright: Big Stock Photo
Plants That Attract The Painted Lady
Host Plants: (What is this?)
Nectar Plants: (What is this?)
Aster, Blazing Stars, Butterfly Bush, Coneflowers, Cosmos, Red Clover, Shasta Daisy, Tall Verbena, Thistle, Zinnia, and more
Note: Always check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to make sure a plant will grow in your area.
Painted Lady Life Cycle
Pale GreenEgg
Copyright: Fred Miller
Brown Chrysalis
Copyright: Fred Miller
Butterfly Flight Range
Note: Map represents approximate butterfly flight range.
