Queen (Danaus gilippus)
This queen loves to show off in open sunny areas where all can see. At a quick glance, it resembles a Monarch but with a closer eye you will see that the Queen is darker orange/brown and the veins are only black on the underside of the hind wings. These butterflies are also different from their close relatives, the Monarch, by not migrating. Queens usually stay in southern North America where it is warmer year round. Similar to the Monarch, males and females can be determined by the male’s pheromone producing scent gland on the hind wing. It looks like a dark spot on the wing. Queens are a royal treat to have in any southern garden.
Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)
Subfamily: Milkweed Butterfly (Danainae)
Average Wingspan: 2 5/8" - 3 7/8"
Habitat: Open areas, fields, deserts, pastures
Plants That Attract This Butterfly
- Nectar Plants (What is this?)
Butterfly Bush, Lantana, Common Milkweed, Blood Flower, Swamp Milkweed , Zinnia - Host Plants (What is this?)
Butterfly Milkweed, Common Milkweed, Blood Flower, Swamp Milkweed
* 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?)
Butterfly Flight Range Map
Photo Credits:
Male (open wing) - Fred Miller
Male (closed wing) - Fred Miller
Caterpillar - Regina Cutter Edwards
Chrysalis - Fred Miller
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