Desert White
Common NameDesert White
Scientific NamePontia sisymbrii
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, greenish-yellow, black
HabitatArid regions, deserts, rocky hillsides, canyons, open scrubland
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from southern British Columbia to Baja California, east to Colorado and New Mexico
Host PlantsStreptanthus, Caulanthus, Descurainia, Sisymbrium
Flight PeriodMarch to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with yellow stripes. Pupae are typically green or brown and often overwinter.
Identification TipsLook for the prominent greenish-yellow veining on the underside of the hindwings and the dark markings at the forewing apex. Often found in dry, rocky habitats early in the season.
Description
A small to medium-sized white butterfly with distinct dark veins, especially on the underside hindwings which are broadly outlined in greenish-yellow. The forewings have dark markings near the apex.
