Cabbage White
Image: Jules Salles (Public domain)
Common NameCabbage White
Scientific NamePieris rapae
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorswhite
HabitatGardens, meadows, agricultural fields, and disturbed areas.
Geographic RangeNative to Europe, Asia, and North Africa; widely introduced globally including North America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Host Plantscabbage, broccoli, kale, mustard, nasturtium
Flight PeriodTypically March to October in temperate regions, with multiple overlapping broods.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green caterpillars that feed on leaves. Pupae are typically green or brown chrysalises, often attached to host plants or nearby structures.
Identification TipsIn real life, Cabbage Whites are identified by their small size, white wings, and typically one or two small black spots on the forewings (more prominent in females) and a dark tip on the forewing. These details are not visible in this artistic representation.
Description
Two small, white butterflies are depicted fluttering in the upper left of the painting, appearing as simple white forms without detailed markings.
