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Life Cycle of Butterflies

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Julia Heliconian (Dryas iulia)

This graceful orange southern beauty has long narrow wings outlined in a thin black line. While females usually have more black on their wings, the males are often a brighter orange. The Julia is a swift flier that enjoys tropical woodlands. The female can be observed laying her eggs in a shady location on Passiflora vines. An interesting trait common to the longwinged butterflies is their specialized proboscis that allows them to feed on pollen. They are able to get amino acids from the pollen that they cannot get from nectar. This unique diet allows them to live longer than many other butterflies. Enjoy the arrival of this beautiful creature to your garden; they may be there a while!

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: Longwing (Heliconiinae)

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

Habitat: Tropical woodlands, gardens

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Lantana
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Passion Flowers

* 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) - Fred Miller
Male (closed wing) - Fred Miller
Female (open wing) - Fred Miller
Female (closed wing) - Fred Miller
Caterpillar - Regina Cutter Edwards
Chrysalis - Fred Miller