Lily Borer
Common NameLily Borer
Scientific NameBrithys crini
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAgaristinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, reddish-brown, black
HabitatGardens, cultivated areas, coastal regions, and natural habitats where host plants grow
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, Africa, Middle East, Asia (including India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia), and Australia
Host PlantsCrinum, Pancratium, Narcissus, Hippeastrum, Eurycles, Zephyranthes
Flight PeriodMultiple generations per year, active year-round in warmer climates; spring to autumn in temperate zones
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are borers, feeding internally within the bulbs, stems, and leaves of various lily and amaryllis plants, often causing significant damage.
Identification TipsKey features include its dark forewings with distinctive reddish-brown markings, a robust body, and its strong association with lily and amaryllis host plants. The larvae are also identifiable by their black and yellow banding.
Description
A robust, medium-sized moth with dark brown to black forewings adorned with irregular reddish-brown patches and markings, especially prominent along the outer margins.
