Painted Lady Butterfly (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 pictures of the Painted Lady below.
Painted Lady Photos, Facts, And Information
Pale Green Butterfly Egg
Copyright: Fred Miller
Brown Chrysalis with Gold Markings
Copyright: Fred Miller
Wings Closed
Copyright: Fred Miller
Painted Lady Host and Nectar Plants
Host Plants for the Painted Lady: (What is this?)
Nectar Plants for the Painted Lady: (What is this?)
Aster, Blazing Stars, Butterfly Bush, Coneflowers, Cosmos, Red Clover, Shasta Daisy, Tall Verbena, Thistle, Zinnia, and more
Painted Lady Facts And Information
Butterfly Family: Brush-footed Butterflies (Nymphalidae)
Butterfly Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)
Butterfly Wingspan: 2 in. to 2 7/8 in.
Butterfly Habitat: Open areas, fields, parks, gardens
Similar To: American Lady, West Coast Lady
Painted Lady Flight Range Map
Note: Map represents approximate butterfly flight range.
