Great Purple Emperor
Common NameGreat Purple Emperor
Scientific NameAsterocampa celtis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyApaturinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorspurple, black, yellow, white
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, riverbanks, parks, and suburban areas where hackberry trees are present.
Geographic RangeEastern and central United States, parts of southern Canada, and northeastern Mexico.
Host PlantsHackberry (Celtis spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly or in small clusters on hackberry leaves. Caterpillars are green with yellow stripes and two small 'horns' on the head and two tails, overwintering as larvae. Pupae are green and resemble a leaf.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive iridescent purple-blue sheen on the upperside of the wings, especially prominent in males. The underside is mottled gray-brown with a series of small eyespots. Often found near hackberry trees.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown to black wings, featuring striking iridescent purple-blue patches on the upperside, especially in males, and a scattering of white and yellow spots.
