Anise SwallowtailEnlarge

Closed WingEnlarge

Life Cycle of Butterflies

CaterpillarEnlarge	ChrysalisEnlarge

Anise Swallowtail (Papilio zelicaon )

The Anise Swallowtail is a beautiful butterfly with a bright yellow and black coloring. But this butterfly gets it name from the fennel plant, also called wild anise, which is a common food source for the caterpillars. The caterpillars are often confused in appearance with the Black Swallowtail's caterpillars. Consider this butterfly when creating your own garden and you may soon see the Anise Swallowtail's gorgeous wings.

Family: Swallowtail (Papilionidae)

Subfamily: Swallowtail (Papilioninae)

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

Habitat: road edges, foothills, hillsides, gardens

Similar To: Black Swallowtail

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Zinnia, Aster, Butterfly Bush
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Dill, Fennel, Parsley, Queen Anne's Lace

* 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 - Copyright Donald Gudehus
Closed Wing -Tammy Elizabeth Palmer
Caterpillar - Copyright Donald Gudehus
Chrysalis - Copyright Donald Gudehus