Eastern CommaEnlarge

Eastern Common Enlarge

 

Eastern Comma (Polygonia comma)

This uniquely shaped butterfly is fun to watch and has a silver ‘comma’ shape on the hindwings. It easily camouflages with leaves, but if you’re lucky, you will see the beautiful orange and black patterns as the wings open.

The Eastern Comma has been known to chase after birds, other insects, and even people. They are commonly attracted to tree sap and well ripened fruit as a food source.

A host plant for the Eastern Comma is Hops. Long ago, their pupae were used to predict the price of hops; if their spots were gold, higher prices, if silver, lower prices.

These fascinating butterflies are exciting to see flying around in your gardens.

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)

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

Habitat: Woodland areas, streams, fields

Similar To: Question Mark

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Butterfly Bush, Overripe Fruit*
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Elm Tree, False Nettle*, Common HopTree

* 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
Close wing - Fred Miller