Lesser Purple Emperor
Common NameLesser Purple Emperor
Scientific NameApatura ilia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyApaturinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsiridescent purple-blue, dark brown, white, orange
HabitatDeciduous forests, riverine forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, temperate Asia to Japan
Host PlantsPopulus, Salix
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with two horn-like projections on the head and a forked tail, overwintering as small larvae. Pupae are green and suspended head-down.
Identification TipsMales are easily identified by their brilliant iridescent purple-blue sheen on the upperside. Both sexes have a distinctive pattern of white spots and an orange-ringed eyespot on the hindwings, which helps differentiate it from the similar Purple Emperor (*Apatura iris*).
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings, featuring a broad band of white spots across both forewings and hindwings. Males display a striking iridescent purple-blue sheen on the upperside, particularly visible in certain light.
