Great Southern WhiteEnlarge

MaleEnlarge	FemaleEnlarge

Life Cycle of Butterflies

ChrysalisEnlarge

Great Southern White (Ascia monuste)

It’s not just a black and white world in your garden with these lively fliers. The female forms of this butterfly show shades of smoky gray in warmer temperatures. Both the male and females have a black zigzag pattern on the margins of their upper wings. They are low, kind of lazy fliers that will migrate if the area becomes over crowded or food source becomes scarce. These butterflies are most popular in the southern coastal areas. They are a great addition to any southern butterfly garden.

Family: Whites and Sulphurs (Pieridae)

Subfamily: White (Pierinae)

Average Wingspan: 1 3/4" - 3"

Habitat: Marshes, open areas, gardens

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Lantana, Tall Verbena
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Spider flower

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