Asian Comma
Common NameAsian Comma
Scientific NamePolygonia c-album
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, gardens, hedgerows, parks
Geographic RangeTemperate Eurasia, from Western Europe to Japan, including Central and East Asia
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Ulmus, Salix, Humulus lupulus, Ribes
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesAdults typically overwinter, emerging in spring to lay eggs. Caterpillars are spiny and feed on various host plants before pupating into an angular chrysalis.
Identification TipsKey features include the deeply scalloped wing edges and the bright orange upperside with black spots. The underside, though not visible here, has a small white 'C' or comma mark on the hindwing.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with bright orange uppersides marked with black spots and distinctive deeply scalloped, ragged wing margins. The underside is cryptic brown, resembling a dead leaf.
