Fritillary Butterfly

Speyeria cybele

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

+4 Beneficial

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwestWest

Habitat Preferences

gardensmeadowsforest edgesopen grasslandsparks

Taxonomic Group

Butterfly

Order

Lepidoptera

Family

Nymphalidae

Lifecycle

The life cycle of the Fritillary butterfly begins when the female lays her eggs on or near the host plant, which for most Fritillaries is the violet plant (Viola species). The eggs hatch in the fall, and the young caterpillars overwinter in leaf litter without feeding. In the spring, the caterpillars emerge and begin to feed on the leaves of the host plant. The larval stage, which includes several instars, lasts for approximately two to three weeks. The caterpillar then forms a chrysalis, and the pupal stage lasts for about two weeks. The adult butterfly emerges from the chrysalis and has a lifespan of about a month. There is typically one generation per year, with adults flying from late spring to early fall.

Overwintering Strategy

Overwinters as a newly hatched caterpillar in leaf litter near the host plant.

Native Range

North America

Attracted By

VioletsLantanaMilkweedConeflowersIronweedPassion Vine

Repelled By

Information not readily available.

Companion Planting

To support Fritillary butterflies, plant native violets (Viola species) as host plants for their caterpillars. Violets are essential for their reproductive cycle. For adult butterflies, plant a variety of nectar-rich flowers that bloom from spring through fall. Good choices include milkweeds (Asclepias), coneflowers (Echinacea), ironweed (Vernonia), and lantana. Passion vine (Passiflora) is the host plant for the Gulf Fritillary.