Genista Broom Moth
Common NameGenista Broom Moth
Scientific NameUresiphita reversalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatMeadows, fields, gardens, disturbed areas, and open woodlands where host plants are present.
Geographic RangeNorth America, Central America, and parts of South America.
Host PlantsGenista, Lupinus, Baptisia, Sophora, Cytisus, Trifolium
Flight PeriodMultiple broods from spring to fall (e.g., May to October in temperate regions).
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as genista caterpillars, are greenish with black spots and feed gregariously on various plants in the pea family. They pupate in a silken cocoon, often on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for the reddish-brown forewings with characteristic dark spots and wavy lines. The moth's resting posture often shows the forewings covering the paler hindwings. Larvae are distinctive with their green bodies and black spots.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with reddish-brown forewings featuring several distinct dark brown spots and faint, wavy transverse lines. The hindwings are typically paler, though not clearly visible in this dorsal view.
