Purple Emperor
Image: Nicabraham (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NamePurple Emperor
Scientific NameApatura iris
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyApaturinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsdark brown, purple, white, orange
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, especially where sallow trees are present
Geographic RangeEurope (excluding far north and south), temperate Asia to Japan
Host PlantsSalix caprea, Salix cinerea, Salix aurita
Flight PeriodLate June to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on sallow leaves. Larvae are green with yellow stripes and two 'horns' on the head, overwintering as small larvae. Pupae are green and resemble a leaf.
Identification TipsMales exhibit a brilliant iridescent purple-blue sheen when viewed from certain angles; females are larger and lack the strong iridescence, appearing more brown. Both sexes have prominent white bands and are often found 'puddling' on damp ground or feeding on carrion/sap.
Description
A large, dark butterfly with iridescent purple-blue upperwings in males, broad white bands across both wings, and small orange rings on the hindwings.
