Primrose Moth
Common NamePrimrose Moth
Scientific NameSchinia florida
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspink, cream, yellow
HabitatMeadows, open fields, roadsides, gardens where host plants grow
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast
Host Plantsevening primrose (Oenothera spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are specialized feeders on the flowers and developing seeds of evening primrose, often camouflaged to blend with the plant parts. They pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its unique combination of bright pink and cream/yellow markings on the forewings. It is almost always found in association with evening primrose plants.
Description
A small, strikingly beautiful moth with bright pink forewings featuring irregular cream or yellow bands and a cream-colored head and thorax. It often rests camouflaged within the flowers of its host plant.
