Common Geranium-bronze
Common NameCommon Geranium-bronze
Scientific NameCacyreus marshalli
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbrown, white, cream
HabitatGardens, parks, urban areas, cultivated fields, often near geraniums
Geographic RangeNative to Southern Africa; invasive in Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia
Host PlantsPelargonium spp. (geraniums), Geranium spp.
Flight PeriodMultiple generations, almost year-round in warm climates; April to October in temperate regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the flower buds or young leaves of geraniums. Larvae bore into the stems and flower buds, feeding internally. Pupation occurs on the host plant or in leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the unique mottled brown and white pattern on the underside of the wings, the small tail on the hindwing, and its strong association with *Pelargonium* plants.
Description
A small butterfly with a distinctive mottled pattern of dark brown and creamy white bands on the underside of its wings, and a small tail on each hindwing. The upperside is typically a dull bronze-brown.
