Lilac Pyralid
Common NameLilac Pyralid
Scientific NamePalpita unionalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorswhite, purple, tan
HabitatGardens, orchards, cultivated areas, open woodlands, and coastal regions.
Geographic RangeEurope, Africa, Asia, North America (introduced/migrant), Australia.
Host Plantsolive, jasmine, privet, lilac, ash
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer climates; spring to autumn in temperate regions.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green and feed on the leaves of host plants, pupating in a silken cocoon. The species is multivoltine, producing several generations annually.
Identification TipsIdentify by its delicate, translucent purplish-white wings with a subtle iridescence, a few distinct small dark spots, and the characteristic slightly pointed apex of the forewings.
Description
A small moth with translucent, iridescent purplish-white wings, often featuring a few small dark spots and subtle darker lines, and a slightly pointed forewing apex.
