Great Southern White
Common NameGreat Southern White
Scientific NameAscia monuste
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorswhite, pale yellow, brown
HabitatCoastal areas, open fields, gardens, disturbed areas, dunes, salt marshes
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, Caribbean, Central America, South America
Host Plantscabbage, mustard, saltwort, peppergrass, sea rocket, clamshell orchid
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; spring to fall in temperate areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. Larvae are typically green with yellow stripes, feeding on various cruciferous plants. Pupae are usually green or brown, camouflaged to resemble a leaf or twig.
Identification TipsMales are typically pure white, while females can be white or yellowish and often display more prominent brownish or grayish markings/veining on the underside of the hindwings. It can be distinguished from other white butterflies by its slightly larger size and often more pointed forewings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with predominantly white or pale yellow wings, often exhibiting faint brownish veining on the underside, particularly on the hindwings. The body is white and somewhat hairy.
