Dark Spinach
Common NameDark Spinach
Scientific NameEulithis mellinata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellowish-brown, dark brown, cream
HabitatGardens, hedgerows, woodland edges, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsRibes rubrum, Ribes nigrum, Ribes uva-crispa
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, and pupation occurs in the soil or leaf litter. The species overwinters as an egg.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive wavy dark cross-lines and the broad, darker central band on the yellowish-brown forewings, which provide excellent camouflage.
Description
A medium-sized moth with yellowish-brown to reddish-brown forewings, characterized by intricate wavy dark brown cross-lines and a prominent darker central band.
