Painted Lady Butterfly

*Vanessa cardui*

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

+4 Beneficial

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwestSouthwestWestPacific Northwest

Habitat Preferences

gardensmeadowsfieldsparksdunesopensunny environments

Taxonomic Group

Butterfly

Order

Lepidoptera

Family

Nymphalidae

Lifecycle

The Painted Lady butterfly undergoes a complete metamorphosis with four distinct stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. The entire cycle from egg to adult takes approximately 3-4 weeks. Eggs are laid singly on host plants and hatch in about 3-5 days. The larval stage, where the caterpillar eats and grows, lasts for 5-10 days. The caterpillar then forms a chrysalis, and this pupal stage lasts for 7-10 days. Finally, the adult butterfly emerges from the chrysalis and has a lifespan of about 2 to 4 weeks.

Overwintering Strategy

Migrates to warmer regions, such as Mexico and the southwestern United States, to remain active and reproduce throughout the winter.

Native Range

Worldwide, on every continent except Antarctica, Australia, and South America

Attracted By

thistlesmallowslegumescloveralfalfaasterscosmosblazing starironweedzinniasJoe-Pye weedcomposite flowers

Repelled By

None specifically known. General insect-repelling plants may have a minor deterrent effect.

Companion Planting

Planting a diverse array of flowers, especially those in the Asteraceae family, alongside vegetable and fruit crops will attract Painted Lady butterflies and other pollinators, leading to increased yields. Good companion plants include asters, cosmos, zinnias, and Joe-Pye weed.