Mint Root Borer Moth
Common NameMint Root Borer Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta futilalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsMentha (mint), Monarda (bee balm), Salvia (sage)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are root borers, feeding internally on the roots and lower stems of various mint family plants. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or within plant debris.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, overall reddish-brown coloration, and the distinctive pattern of darker brown spots and faint wavy lines on the forewings. The prominent, upward-curving labial palps are also characteristic of the genus Pyrausta.
Description
A small, reddish-brown moth with a somewhat triangular wing shape, featuring darker brown spots and faint wavy lines across its forewings. Its body is slender and matches the wing coloration.
