Nutmeg Moth
Common NameNutmeg Moth
Scientific NameDiscestra trifolii
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatOpen disturbed areas, cultivated land, gardens, meadows, waste ground
Geographic RangeHolarctic (Europe, Asia, North Africa, North America)
Host Plantscabbage, beet, lettuce, potato, pea, clover, alfalfa, dandelion, plantain
Flight PeriodMay to September (bivoltine or trivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are polyphagous, often green or brown with darker markings, and pupate in the soil. Overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled brown/grey forewings with prominent, often pale-ringed reniform and orbicular spots. The overall cryptic pattern helps it blend with bark or soil. The hindwings are pale with a darker margin.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, featuring distinct kidney-shaped (reniform) and circular (orbicular) spots, often outlined in white or pale scales. The hindwings are typically paler, greyish-white, darkening towards the termen.
