Native Budworm
Common NameNative Budworm
Scientific NameHelicoverpa punctigera
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)37.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbeige, light brown, dark brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, grasslands, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeAustralia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia
Host Plantscotton, lucerne, chickpea, lupin, canola, tomato, various native broadleaf plants
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, spring to autumn in temperate areas (multiple generations)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as budworms, feed on buds, flowers, and fruits of a wide range of host plants. Pupation occurs in the soil, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its generally paler, more uniformly mottled forewings compared to closely related species, often with a less distinct reniform spot and a more diffuse subterminal band.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned forewings, typically beige to light brown, mottled with darker brown speckles and an indistinct darker band across the middle.
