Julia Heliconian Butterfly (Dryas iulia)

Male Butterfly - Long Orange Wings with Black Markings
Copyright: Fred Miller
This graceful orange southern butterfly 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!
Julia Heliconian Photos, Facts, And Information

White and Black Larva with Black Spikes
Copyright: Regina Cutter Edwards

Brown Chrysalis
Copyright: Fred Miller

Female - Long Orange Wings
Copyright: Fred Miller

Male Butterfly Nectaring on Purple Flower
Copyright: Fred Miller

Brown Female Butterfly Feeding on Orange Slice
Copyright: Fred Miller
Julia Heliconian Host and Nectar Plants
Host Plants for the Julia Heliconian: (What is this?)
Nectar Plants for the Julia Heliconian: (What is this?)
Lantana, and more
Julia Heliconian Facts And Information
Butterfly Family: Brush-footed Butterflies (Nymphalidae)
Butterfly Subfamily: Longwing (Heliconiinae)
Butterfly Wingspan: 3 1/8 in. to 3 5/8 in.
Butterfly Habitat: Tropical woodlands, gardens
Julia Heliconian Flight Range Map
Note: Map represents approximate butterfly flight range.
