Lotus Hairstreak
Common NameLotus Hairstreak
Scientific NameCallophrys dumetorum
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)27
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, white
HabitatChaparral, coastal sage scrub, open woodlands, canyons, hillsides
Geographic RangeWestern North America (primarily California and Baja California)
Host PlantsLotus scoparius, Acmispon glaber, Lupinus, Eriogonum
Flight PeriodFebruary to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant buds or leaves. Larvae feed on flowers and young leaves, pupating near the ground and overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for the bright iridescent green underside, the reddish-brown patch on the forewing base, and the absence of tails, which distinguishes it from many other hairstreaks.
Description
A small butterfly with brilliant iridescent green undersides, a reddish-brown patch at the base of the forewing, and typically one or two small white spots on the hindwing.
