Male Eastern Tailed BlueEnlarge

FemaleEnlarge	FemaleEnlarge

 

Eastern Tailed-Blue (Everes comyntas)

These small adorable butterflies are lovely to watch visiting flowers or moist areas. The males are a cobalt blue while the females are a more slate gray. They can be seen flying low to the ground or basking in the sun with their wings slightly open. Unlike other butterflies, the females will lay her eggs on the host plants flower buds and the caterpillars will feed on them, along with the flowers and seeds. This dainty little butterfly is a delightful guest to welcome in your garden.

Family: Gossamer Wing (Lycaenidae)

Subfamily: Blue (Polyommatinae)

Average Wingspan: 3/4" - 1"

Habitat: Meadows, grassy areas, pastures

Similar To: Summer Azure

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Common Milkweed, Coreopsis, Zinnia, Aster, Dogbane*
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Crown Vetch*, Cow Vetch*, White Clover*, Milk Vetch*

* 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:
Male (open wing) - Bud Hensley
Female (open wing) - Fred Miller
Female (closed wing) - Fred Miller