Cabbage tree moth
Common NameCabbage tree moth
Scientific NameEpiphryne verriculata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, cream
HabitatForests, gardens, urban areas where its host plant is present
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host PlantsCordyline australis
Flight PeriodYear-round (more common September to May)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'looper' caterpillars that feed exclusively on the leaves of the cabbage tree (*Cordyline australis*).
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic brown and cream banding with fine transverse lines, and its strong association with the cabbage tree (*Cordyline australis*) in New Zealand.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and cream wings, featuring numerous fine, wavy transverse lines across both forewings and hindwings. The hindwings are notably paler at the base.
