Camphorweed Owlet
Common NameCamphorweed Owlet
Scientific NamePonometia semiflava
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcontiinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellowish-tan, brown, black
HabitatOpen fields, disturbed areas, roadsides, and wetlands where host plants grow.
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, west to Texas, and north to parts of the Midwest.
Host PlantsPluchea camphorata, Pluchea odorata
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe caterpillar, as pictured, is strikingly patterned with alternating bands of black, orange, and white, often featuring black spots on the white segments. It feeds on camphorweed before pupating.
Identification TipsLook for the small size and the distinctive yellowish-tan forewings with a prominent dark brown or blackish patch near the wing tip. The plain grayish hindwings also aid in identification.
Description
The adult Camphorweed Owlet is a small moth with yellowish-tan to light brown forewings, characterized by darker brown or blackish markings, including a prominent dark patch near the apex. Its hindwings are typically plain grayish.
