Mullein Moth
Common NameMullein Moth
Scientific NameNothris verbascella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorscream, beige, black
HabitatDry grasslands, waste ground, gardens, roadsides
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, introduced to North America
Host PlantsVerbascum thapsus, Verbascum nigrum, Verbascum blattaria
Flight PeriodMay to July, August to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on Mullein leaves, where the larvae feed, often spinning silk webs. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, typically in the soil or leaf litter, with two generations per year being common.
Identification TipsLook for its pale forewings with characteristic black spots, the prominent upturned labial palps, and its strong association with Mullein plants, which are its primary host.
Description
A small, slender moth with pale ochreous to whitish-ochreous forewings marked with scattered dark scales and distinct black spots. It has prominent, upturned labial palps.
