Holly Blue
Common NameHolly Blue
Scientific NameCelastrina argiolus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsblue, white, black
HabitatWoodland edges, hedgerows, gardens, parks, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host PlantsIlex aquifolium, Hedera helix, Cornus sanguinea, Ulex europaeus, Rhamnus cathartica
Flight PeriodApril to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on flower buds. Larvae are small, green, and slug-like, feeding on buds and young shoots. Pupae are typically green or brown and attach to stems or leaves, overwintering in this stage.
Identification TipsDistinguished from other blue butterflies by its plain pale underside (lacking prominent spots) and its habit of flying high around trees and shrubs. Females have a broader black border on the forewings.
Description
A small, delicate butterfly with iridescent sky-blue upperwings, often with a narrow dark border in females. The undersides are pale blue-grey to white, usually with very few or no markings.
