American Lady Open WingEnlarge

Closed wingEnlarge	ProboscisEnlarge

Life Cycle of Butterflies

CaterpillarEnlarge	ChrysalisEnlarge
EmergingEnlarge

American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis)

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.

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)

Average Wingspan: 1 3/4" - 2 5/8"

Habitat: Open areas, gardens

Similar To: Painted Lady , West Coast Lady

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Aster, Common Milkweed, Marigold, Tall Verbena, Joe-Pye weed, Goldenrod*, Dogbane*
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Sunflower, Pussy-toe, Silver Brocade, Ironweed, Pearly Everlasting, Mallow

* May not be available for purchase at your local nursery.

Note: Always check a plant's Hardiness Zone to make sure it will grow in your area. (What Is My Hardiness Zone?)

Where To Buy Plants

Butterfly Flight Range Map

Photo Credits:
Open wing - Fred Miller
Closed Wing - Fred Miller
Proboscis - Fred Miller
Caterpillar - Fred Miller
Chrysalis - Fred Miller
Emerging - Fred Miller