Orache Moth
Common NameOrache Moth
Scientific NameTrigonophora meticulosa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)48
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, grey, brown, cream
HabitatGardens, woodlands, hedgerows, open country
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdock, knotgrass, orache, plantain, primrose, bramble, willow, birch
Flight PeriodMay to July, August to November (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are polyphagous, feeding on a wide variety of herbaceous plants and shrubs. The species typically overwinters as a larva.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the unique 'crumpled' or 'folded' appearance of the forewings, the mossy green and grey camouflage pattern, and the prominent pale, almost white, reniform stigma.
Description
The Orache Moth is a medium-sized moth characterized by its distinctively crumpled-looking forewings, which are mottled in shades of green, grey, and brown, providing excellent camouflage against bark or foliage.
