Deep-green Hairstreak
Common NameDeep-green Hairstreak
Scientific NameCallophrys viridis
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)27
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgreen, black
HabitatChaparral, coastal sage scrub, open woodlands
Geographic RangeWestern North America (primarily California and Baja California)
Host PlantsCeanothus, Eriogonum, Lotus scoparius, Rhamnus californica
Flight PeriodFebruary to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves or stems. Larvae feed on the host plant, and pupae typically overwinter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive deep green underside with a broken band of black dashes and two short tails on the hindwing. The upper side is usually dull brown.
Description
A small butterfly with a vibrant deep green underside on both forewings and hindwings, marked with a broken postmedian band of black dashes. The hindwings feature two short, slender tails.
