West Coast LadyEnlarge

 

West Coast Lady (Vanessa annabella)

As the West Coast Lady's name implies, this beautiful butterfly is found in the Western U.S. She enjoys basking on open ground, but may flutter off at approaching footsteps. Seen from above, the Lady's wings are a vivid orange, with a brown and white pattern, and blue eyespots. The less colorful underside of the wing has a mottled pattern resembling gravel or bark. The adults of this species lay eggs singly, and the caterpillars form a silky nest on their food plants. The adults prefer nectar from a variety of flowers and bushes, and with the right plants, you are likely to see this lovely Lady visiting your garden.

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)

Average Wingspan: 1 1/2" - 2 1/4"

Habitat: Fields, weedy areas, gardens, foothills, chap

Similar To: American Lady , Painted Lady

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Aster, Yarrow, Goldenrod*
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Hollyhock, Mallow, False Nettle*

* 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 - Copyright Donald Gudehus