description American Lady Overview
The American lady, Vanessa virginiensis, is a brush footed butterfly found across much of North and Central America, with occurrences extending into parts of South America. Adults are orange, brown, black, and white, and the underside of each hindwing usually displays two large eyespots that help distinguish it from related painted ladies. Its caterpillars feed mainly on plants in the everlasting tribe, including cudweeds and pearly everlastings.
help American Lady FAQ
What is the scientific name of the American lady butterfly?
The American lady is Vanessa virginiensis, a brush-footed butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. It occurs across much of North and Central America, with records extending into parts of South America.
How can I identify an American lady butterfly?
Adults have orange, brown, black, and white markings on the upper wings. The underside of each hindwing usually has two large eyespots, a useful field mark when the wings are closed.
How is the American lady different from the painted lady?
Both are orange-and-brown Vanessa butterflies, but the American lady usually shows two large blue-centered eyespots on the hindwing underside. The painted lady typically has a different pattern of smaller eyespots and forewing markings.
What plants do American lady caterpillars use?
The caterpillars commonly feed on plants in the mallow family, including cudweed and related host plants. Adults visit flowers for nectar and can be seen in open, sunny habitats.
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