Variegated FritillaryEnlarge

Closed wingEnlarge

 

Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia)

The Variegated Fritillary is a shapely butterfly that has somewhat scalloped edges and wavy black lines on the upper side of its orange wings. The undersides of its wings are tan and brown, making it resemble a dead leaf. There are no shiny spots like other fritillary butterflies. The caterpillar of this unique butterfly is a sleek orange with white spots and black, branched spines. The chrysalis is a wondrous pearl color, sometimes with brown spots, and shiny gold spikes. This butterfly is truly a pleasure to welcome into your garden.

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: Longwing (Heliconiinae)

Average Wingspan: 1 3/4" - 3 1/8"

Habitat: Open areas, pastures, fields, prairies

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Butterfly Bush, Butterfly Milkweed, Common Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Passion Flowers, Woodland Stonecrop, Violet

* 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
Closed wing - Fred Miller