Common BuckeyeEnlarge

Close wingEnlarge

Life Cycle of Butterflies

ChrysalisEnlarge

Common Buckeye (Junonia coenia)

This butterfly is a beautiful creature that is a must-have in all butterfly gardens. It is a fabulous chestnut brown with 6 bright colorful eye spots. These smaller butterflies are quick, energetic fliers that are entertaining to watch as they flutter close to the ground. Buckeyes can be hard to see when hiding because they are very well camouflaged when they have their wings folded up, appearing as a dull brown leaf. Luckily, more times than not they will be basking in the sun showing off their colors. Gardens With Wings™ are not complete without the Buckeye fluttering around.

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)

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

Habitat: Open areas, fields, meadows

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Aster, Coreopsis, Swamp Milkweed , Tall Verbena
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Snapdragon, Tall Verbena, Ruellia*, Swamp Verbena*

* 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
Chrysalis - Fred Miller