Mustard White
Common NameMustard White
Scientific NamePieris oleracea
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)42
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed woodlands, forest edges, clearings, moist meadows
Geographic RangeNortheastern North America, from eastern Canada south to the Great Lakes region and Appalachians
Host Plantstoothworts, bittercress, rockcress, wild mustards
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green caterpillars that feed on the leaves, and pupae are green or brown, resembling a leaf or twig.
Identification TipsDistinguished from the Cabbage White by the more pronounced dark veining on the underside of the hindwings, especially in the spring brood, and the general lack of distinct black spots on the upperside forewing.
Description
A small to medium-sized white butterfly with prominent dark veins on the underside of its hindwings, giving it a distinctive striped appearance. The upperside is typically plain white.
