Painted LadyEnlarge

Close wingEnlarge

Life Cycle of Butterflies

EggEnlarge
ChrysalisEnlarge

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

This lady has been around the world. The Painted Lady can be found on all continents except Antarctica, making it one of the most common butterflies in the world. They can be found just about anywhere but they prefer open, disturbed areas such as parks and gardens. One distinguishing characteristic of the Painted Lady is the four eyespots on the underside of the hind wing; the American Painted Lady has two eyespots. These quick, zigzagging fliers are hard to follow but can be seen basking in the sun or nectaring. They are a pleasure to have in every garden.

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)

Average Wingspan: 2" - 2 7/8"

Habitat: Open areas, fields, parks, gardens

Similar To: American Lady , West Coast Lady

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Aster, Blazing Stars, Butterfly Bush, Buttonbush, Cosmos, Common Milkweed, Tall Verbena, Zinnia
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Hollyhock, Shasta Daisy, Sunflower, Mallow

* 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:
Main image - Fred Miller
Closed wing - Big Stock Photo
Egg - Fred Miller
Chrysalis - Fred Miller